Acer palmatum
tree

Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, keep soil moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Japan, Korea, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A deciduous shrub or small tree known for its attractive foliage and graceful branches. Varieties exhibit stunning fall colors, and certain cultivars have unique leaf shapes and sizes.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAcer palmatum provides stunning foliage with vibrant colors in spring and fall, enhancing visual interest.
Practical UsesIts compact size makes it suitable for small gardens and containers.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinators and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select well-drained, acidic soil with organic matter.
  2. Plant in partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  5. Prune gently in late winter to shape and remove dead branches.
  6. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure protection from strong afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Tuck seeds in moist, well-draining soil 🌱
  • Mist cuttings regularly for humidity
  • Prune to maintain shape and remove deadwood
  • Fertilize in early spring for healthy growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not expose young trees to harsh afternoon sun
  • Avoid heavy pruning in late summer
  • Don't ignore signs of pests or disease

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Delicate shade tree in woodland gardensOrnamental focal point in small gardensSeasonal specimen with vibrant fall color

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Japanese Maple Azaleas Hydrangeas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Japanese Maple grow in?

Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Maple bloom?

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

Does Japanese Maple need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Maple with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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