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Moonrise Maple

Acer shirasawanum 'Moonrise'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

60+ years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer shirasawanum, the full moon maple, is a species of Japanese maple known for its beautiful palmate leaves with 9-13 lobes, which gives them a rounded, full moon appearance. They are prized for their spectacular foliage. Moonrise™ is a stunning cultivar that offers a dynamic, season-long color show. New leaves emerge bright, almost fluorescent red, maturing to a vibrant chartreuse in summer, and finally turning brilliant shades of orange and red in autumn. It is also noted for being more resistant to leaf burn than many other varieties.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Moonrise™ is a spectacular specimen tree valued for its dramatic, multi-season foliage. The transition from fiery red spring leaves to bright chartreuse summer foliage and then to blazing autumn tones provides unparalleled visual interest in the landscape.

Its compact, upright habit makes it an ideal choice for small gardens, courtyards, and even large containers, where its beauty can be appreciated up close. It can be used to bring light and color to a semi-shady corner.

The small spring flowers provide a nectar source for early pollinators. The branching structure can offer shelter for small birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is moist, well-drained, and acidic.
Dig a hole two times wider than the container but no deeper.
Carefully remove the tree and loosen any circling roots.
Place the tree so its root flare is slightly above soil level.
Backfill with soil, water well, and apply a layer of mulch.

Pro Tip

Provide protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds to prevent leaf scorch and maintain the best foliage color throughout the season.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil.
Mulch annually to protect the shallow root system.
Provide dappled shade, especially in hotter climates.
Protect from strong winds.

Don't

Don't plant in heavy, alkaline, or poorly drained soil.
Avoid exposing it to harsh afternoon sun.
Don't let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Don't prune in early spring when the sap is running heavily.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Exquisite courtyard or patio specimenFocal point in a woodland gardenStunning container tree

Companion Plants

Hosta 'Frances Williams' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Rhododendron 'PJM' Fern (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum') Epimedium x rubrum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Moonrise Maple questions

What zones can Moonrise Maple grow in?

Moonrise 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 Moonrise Maple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Moonrise Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Moonrise Maple bloom?

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

Does Moonrise Maple need full sun?

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