Japanese Maple ( Yamamomiji, irohamomji, momiji )
(Acer palmatum), smooth Japanese maple, is z small tree reaching to 10m, occasionally to 16m. It is commonly found as an understorey tree in woodland. Often many-stemmed it has a dome-like habit. Leaves are palmate with five, seven or nine deeply-cut pointed lobes. Flowers are small, opening in April in small clusters that turn into winged fruits (samara). Japanese maple shows great genetic variation. Seedlings from the same tree will often show differences of leaf size, shape and colour. This has been taken advantage of and many cultivars have been developed. Branches and leaves are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Key idea: " soothing". Main colour: yellow
Healing, calming, soothing fears. A flow of relaxation and understanding. Creativity, playfulness and enjoyment. Deep connections to the power of Nature. Issues resolved to do with power, conflict and control. Soothing flow of internal and external energies.