The Japanese maple at DHS
Is a tree with foliage that will impress
It has green leaves and green bark
That are this Acer Palmatum’s trademark

But not all Palmatum’s are the same
There are different types with different names
Some are shrubs and some are trees
Whose different colors will appease

These dicots grow from seeds in the ground
And can be 25 ft all-around
Cutting and replacing a growing portion
will make the plant increase in proportion

They grow well in all types of soil
But direct sunlight makes the leaves spoil
The foliage burns in the sunlight
And the plant may not be alright

Its fruit is dry, winged and one-seeded
Its flower is purple or red, and somewhat receded
The plant should be watered in such a way
So that in the soil, the water will stay

It is used in the garden most commonly
And is admired for its year-round beauty
Its sap contains sugar that is edible
And its preservative qualities are incredible

Even though they may appear frail
The Japanese maple will never fail
Acer Palmatum does succeed
Because the species is varied

They’re native to China, Korea, and Japan
And were introduced to America by man
At DHS, it’s near the library,
The Japanese maple is extraordinary

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