Species

Acer palmatumJapanese Maple

23 other cultivars

tree

Emperor 1 Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Emperor 1'

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer palmatum, native to East Asia, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub known for its graceful branching and deeply lobed palmate leaves. Small, reddish-purple spring flowers give way to winged samaras, though the primary ornamental value lies in its leaf structure and dramatic seasonal color shifts.

'Emperor 1' is distinguished by dark purple-red foliage that holds its rich color through summer heat without scorching before turning brilliant crimson in fall. It expands buds roughly two weeks later in spring than cultivars like 'Bloodgood', effectively avoiding late spring frost damage on emerging leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers multi-season interest with deep burgundy foliage that resists sun scorch, brilliant fall crimson, and an upright vase form.

Delayed spring leafing reduces risk of frost injury in regions prone to late cold snaps.

Provides sheltered canopy structure and nesting sites for small songbirds.

SpeciesAcer palmatumJapanese Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

236"

Width

177"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-draining, humus-rich loam that receives full sun to partial shade, prioritizing afternoon shade in warm climates.
Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth, keeping the top of the root crown level with surrounding soil.
Backfill with native soil mixed with organic matter, firming gently to clear air pockets without compacting the root zone.
Water deeply at planting and establish a consistent moisture schedule while roots set.
Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch around the drip line, keeping material 3 inches away from the trunk bark.

Pro Tip

Do not panic if 'Emperor 1' remains dormant while other Japanese maples leaf out; its delayed bud break is a genetic trait that prevents late spring frost damage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in light, moisture-retentive, acidic to neutral soil with rapid drainage.
Provide shade from hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf margin scorch.
Maintain a thick layer of mulch to keep roots cool and preserve soil moisture.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, wet clay soils where standing water triggers root rot.
Do not heavy-prune into thick, leafless old wood.
Do not pile mulch directly against the trunk bark.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen treeCourtyard focal pointUnderstory woodland gardenLarge patio container

Companion Plants

Hakonechloa macra Heuchera Hosta Rhododendron

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Emperor 1 Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Emperor 1 Japanese Maple grow in?

Emperor 1 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 Emperor 1 Japanese Maple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Emperor 1 Japanese Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Emperor 1 Japanese Maple bloom?

Emperor 1 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 Emperor 1 Japanese Maple need full sun?

Emperor 1 Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.