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.
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