tree RHS Award

Fernleaf Full Moon Maple

Acer japonicum 'Aconitifolium'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

150 inches

Width

150 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Japan, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer japonicum, the Full Moon Maple, is a small, deciduous tree from Japan with rounded, palmately lobed leaves that often color brilliantly in autumn. 'Aconitifolium' is a highly sought-after cultivar with deeply dissected, fern-like leaves that provide a unique texture and turn a spectacular, fiery crimson in the fall.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This is a premier specimen tree for three-season interest. Its deeply cut, ferny leaves create a soft, elegant texture in summer, followed by one of the most brilliant crimson fall displays of any maple. The small reddish flowers in spring are also attractive up close.

Its small, slow-growing nature makes it perfectly suited for small gardens, courtyards, and even large containers, where its beauty can be appreciated up close. It serves as a stunning focal point in any design.

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

Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Gently tease out circling roots and place the tree in the hole.
Set the root flare at or just above the surrounding soil level.
Backfill, water thoroughly, and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch.

Pro Tip

Protect from hot afternoon sun and drying winds to prevent leaf scorch, which can mar the delicate foliage, especially in warmer climates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially during hot, dry weather.
Mulch to protect the shallow root system.
Site the tree where it is protected from harsh winds.
Allow the tree to develop its natural, graceful form with minimal pruning.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged soil.
Avoid exposure to intense, all-day sun.
Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Refrain from pruning in spring or summer, as maples will 'bleed' sap.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Exquisite specimen for small gardensFine-textured accent in woodland settingsDramatic container plant for patios

Companion Plants

Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Hosta Dryopteris erythrosora Helleborus Epimedium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fernleaf Full Moon Maple questions

What zones can Fernleaf Full Moon Maple grow in?

Fernleaf Full Moon Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fernleaf Full Moon Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Fernleaf Full Moon Maple bloom?

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

Does Fernleaf Full Moon Maple need full sun?

Fernleaf Full Moon Maple does best in part shade.