Brad, That is a very nice looking tree, I will probably have to add one to my small collection. here in Roanoke, VA we have had several days in the upper 60's and low 70's and all my maples are beginning to bud out. Richard
I will just mention here that I have just posted this tree and a few others today because I just received them in the mail last week. This is going to be a nice tree and the bowl shaped blue planter should really set it off when it leaves out. I will post pictures of it in the spring. Kent
Here is my baldsmith as 7/23/06. It's been quite hot, sunny and rainy, but this little guy is holding up quite well.
Here's a freshly planted baldsmith. Colors seem almost more reminiscent of fall than spring. Looking forward to an interesting year...
Baldsmith is a mounding dissectum with wonderful color throughout the growing season. Mine has a low graft which suits its site beautifully: it's situated on the rocky bank of a seasonal stream-bed and half the tree hangs delicately over the stream. It seems very similar to 'Watnong', but Watnong's leaves appear to be a bit more finely dissected. This photo was taken May 3, 2008.
I couldn't help post a couple more pictures of this tree as I have been pleasantly surpised. As some have mentioned the varied colors of these leaves can diffuse into a kind of indistinct color when viewed from a afar. May I humbly suggesting planting this one where it can be seen up close in all its glory. I have a crimson queen, tamuke yama, and red dragon. While I love them all, I must admit, at least at this young stage I have a hard time telling the difference between them. Baldsmith provides a refreshing change of pace so far with year round interest.
Ahh, Alex, your appeals to my vanity have finally been successful :) I will download the membership form and send in the application! (that and a few days without the forum have been sobering :) )
Baldsmith appears to be another winning dissectum...as so many are. I'm going to add this one to my list. Any more pictures guys? David
Does anyone know where A.P. Baldsmith can be acquired in western Canada? I saw one in Washington State last year that made this variety a "Must Have". Norm
I've been idly looking in BC nurseries for a Baldsmith after seeing a beautiful example near Seattle (pictured in post #8 of this thread). We recently examined a number at a place in Langley BC and made a purchase. This nursery overcrowds holding areas and we saw numerous examples of damaged, even dead, trees. Such a shame, particularly when they want substantial prices. However, this is a long term hobby so I'll improve the shape over time. Here is the new arrival, which is I think #35 in our collection.
Looks like a good purchase! I hope that it brings you much enjoyment. I'm going to get one sooner or later... David
ok, this little guy officially wins maple of the year in my garden! Rounds out the year with a nice rich uniform brick red. There was just about 8 weeks with a dullish green color in summer; otherwise true year round interest. Disregard whitish spots (deer off) and spiderwebs.
Upthread, I posted a picture of the Baldsmith we acquired in July 2008. Here it is in September 2009. I've pruned it very little, still waiting for it to reveal the shape it will prefer. Color has been good through the summer with greening of inner, shaded leaves but red on exposed areas. I think the color variation is its best quality.
Here is my Baldsmith, it is about 6' tall and 7' wide. One view is from the east and the other is from the south, the tree does get some shade in the morning. I have found Baldsmith is a little more sun sensative.