A compact maple admired for its pale orange-yellow spring growth edged in red, maturing to green then returning to bright gold and orange in autumn. A reliable early-season performer.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Maple 'Katsura'
Botanically, Acer palmatum 'Katsura' is a slow-growing shrub in the Sapindaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with deciduous, rich in autumn colour and golden foliage.
Where to grow Japanese Maple 'Katsura'
Japanese Maple 'Katsura' suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Japanese Maple 'Katsura' does best in loamy, free-draining and acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Maple 'Katsura' does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Japanese Maple 'Katsura' in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Japanese Maple 'Katsura' in the garden
Japanese Maple 'Katsura' earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Japanese Maple 'Katsura' with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Japanese Maple 'Katsura'
Plant Sale lists Japanese Maple 'Katsura' as potted plants and advanced specimens. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
