Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Waterfall'

Species

3 other cultivars

tree

Waterfall Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Waterfall'

$195.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer palmatum is a deciduous woody species native to East Asia, forming low-branched shrubs or small understory trees with deeply lobed palmate foliage. Plants produce small umbels of reddish-purple spring flowers followed by paired winged samaras, thriving in moist, organic, well-drained soils.

'Waterfall' is a cascading laceleaf cultivar distinguished by deeply incised, thread-like leaves with seven to eleven lobes that emerge fluorescent chartreuse in spring. The umbrella-like branching habit forms a low weeping canopy spreading up to twelve feet wide over time.

Uses & Benefits:

Cascading weeping structure with finely divided chartreuse spring foliage.

Non-toxic foliage safe for placement near high-traffic paths and pet areas.

Provides sheltered cover and nesting sites for small birds and garden beneficials.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120"

Width

144"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Asia (Japan, Korea, China)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$195.95

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$205.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-drained, slightly acidic soil that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal to its depth, keeping the root collar flush with the surface.
Backfill with native soil enriched with organic compost, settling the soil with water to eliminate air pockets.
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the root zone, keeping it away from direct contact with the bark.
Water regularly during dry spells to maintain uniform soil moisture without creating waterlogged conditions.

Pro Tip

Limit pruning to late fall or winter dormancy; spring or summer cuts trigger heavy sap bleeding that weakens the structure.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Mulch annually with organic matter to maintain cool root temperatures and conserve soil moisture.
Provide protection from baking afternoon sun and strong drying winds.
Plant in acidic, organically rich, well-drained soils.

Don't

Do not over-fertilize, as excess nitrogen causes leaf burn and damages fragile roots.
Do not prune in spring while sap pressure is high and actively running.
Do not allow soil to remain waterlogged or subject roots to standing water.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Focal point or specimen tree in shaded garden bedsUnderstory element along woodland garden pathwaysPond and water feature margins where weeping form reflectsLarge container planting on protected courtyard patios

Companion Plants

Heuchera Hosta Hakonechloa macra Rhododendron Athyrium niponicum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Waterfall Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Waterfall Japanese Maple grow in?

Waterfall Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Waterfall Japanese Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Waterfall Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Waterfall Japanese Maple bloom?

Waterfall Japanese Maple typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Waterfall Japanese Maple need full sun?

Waterfall Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.