The Ugliest Winter Tree
My vote goes for Acer palmatum 'Shaina'. Don't get me wrong - this is a beautiful tree any other time of year (see photo below). During the winter months, the leaves cling to the tree and it is an unsightly mess. The leaves are also difficult to remove. I've tried using the rake but that doesn't work. The leaf blower didn't do a thing. Hand-picking is the best method although, as you can see, not too effective -
The new leaves are emerging and they will eventually push the old leaves off. It is just a matter of time -
Last May -
Comments
I thought it was an indication of stress, but heard there may be a benefit to the tree when it hangs on to its old foliage, something that quite surprised me. It is possible it has value when it regrows new foliage.
So hang in tight, it won't be much longer.
Chavli
Lagerstroemias always look dead in the winter and always surprise by leafing out just fine come spring. They fool me every year. You'd almost believe they have a sense of humor.