Plant Image Data Base                                                                                   

  Acer palmatum

                                                        Japanese Maple

• Form
  • small-sized deciduous ornamental tree
  • the species form may mature at 20' tall by 20' wide, but the numerous cultivars are always smaller
  • growth habit is variable from upright rounded, horizontal-vase, or pendulous, depending upon cultivar, becoming densely twiggy amongst layered branching with age
  • slow growth rate
• Culture
  • full sun to full shade, but usually best in partial sun to partial shade
  • prefers rich, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils
  • abundantly available, in either container or ball and burlap form
• Foliage
  • fall color may be pale chartreuse, vivid orange, or red, depending upon cultivar and sun exposure
• Flowers
  • clusters of red to purple inflorescences in late May and early June

  Purpose

  • Japanese Maple is one of the finest exquisite small trees for texture, form, foliage, and fall color.
• Summary
  • Acer palmatum is the standard among small ornamental trees with respect to its many attributes and cultivars, being a true investment in the landscape, especially where space is limited or a focal point is needed.

  Top