Acer palmatum
Japanese Maple
Description
This magnificent plant can used as a small tree or shrub. It is deciduous with graceful leaves which have a scarlet color in spring as it leafs out. They turn orange or yellow in fall. It is slow growing to 20', and requires shelter from hot winds. The leaves of this tree are small, light green in color, and deply lobed. It should also be noted that the tree remains spectacular throughout all seasons. Second picture by Steve Mullany.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
1-3', 3-6', 6-12', 12-25', 25-40'
Width Range
3-6', 6-12', 12-25', 25-40'
Flower Color
Green, White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Bronze, Green, Dark Green, Light Green, Yellow Green, Orange, Red, Yellow, Variegated
Bark Color
Brown, Green, Grey, Red, Striped, Tan
Fruit Color
Orange, Red
Fruit Season
Summer, Fall
Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Fast, Moderate, Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Rich, Well-drained
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Formal, Japanese, Meadow, Water Garden, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Multi-trunk Tree, Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Entry, Foundation, Lawn, Patio, Raised Planter, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Naturalizing, Small Spaces
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Wildlife
Water Saving Tip:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.
If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.