Kent,

That is a beautiful tree. How old is it? What is that plant with the blue flowers?

thanks,
xman

It looks like muscari(grape hyacinths).They naturalize readily and are bulbs.I planted 5,000 of these a few years back.Excellent photo....again.

Thanks guys. And Koniferkid is right about the grape hyacinth. I have had the tree for 8 years and it was a pretty good size tree when I puchased it. I think it was in a 10 or 15gal. pot.

Kent

Nice picture! I love those trees.
Will a snowload or ice take out that low branch on the right?

This tree is very tough so that has never been a problem.

Kent

here is a full shot of the tree.

Kent

Beautiful shot of the tree. It is one I have been interested in for some time. I love the shot with the muscari in the background. Did you prune the tree to be able to see the branch structure or is iit naturally exposed?
---Keith

Kent,
I am from KC and am looking for a good place to purchase a JM. I am having my landscape redone around my patio. Epic recomended Bloodgood or Emperor.I think I want smaller and maybe not so red. I read this forum often ,but rarely post. I know little about JM's and would value your advice. Could email pic of area.

Terri, do you want an upright or a cascaiding variety? The two you mentioned are upright varities and are both good choices for the hot and humid midwest. If the area you are planting is in full sun you must take extra care in your choice. A smaller shrub like variety is Shaina. It will never turn into a large tree and is great choice for your area also. It is red though. There are so many to choose from. I would suggest that you invest in a book. Vertrees Japanese Maples published bt Timber Press. It is a great resource with much information and good pictures.

Kent