An elegant, slow-growing deciduous tree with delicate palmate leaves that turn brilliant shades of crimson, orange and gold in autumn. A timeless feature tree for sheltered, dappled positions.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Japanese Maple
Botanically, Acer palmatum is a slow-growing tree in the Sapindaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Japanese Maple
Japanese Maple 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 does best in loamy, free-draining and acidic soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Japanese Maple is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Japanese Maple in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Japanese Maple in the garden
Japanese Maple earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and bonsai culture. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Japanese Maple with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Japanese Maple
Plant Sale lists Japanese Maple as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.