Species

Acer shirasawanumFullmoon Maple

2 other cultivars

tree RHS Award

Autumn Moon Japanese Maple

Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon'

The Story

Plant Bio

Shirasawa's maple, or fullmoon maple, is a slow-growing Japanese maple species celebrated for its rounded, palmate leaves and elegant structure.

'Autumn Moon' is a stunning cultivar whose chartreuse leaves emerge with reddish-orange tints in spring, holding this color in sun and turning brilliant orange and red in fall.

Uses & Benefits:

A premier specimen tree prized for its multi-season display. The foliage emerges with an orange-pink blush over chartreuse, maturing to a bright yellow-green, and culminating in a fiery mix of orange and red in autumn. Its elegant, layered structure is beautiful year-round.

Its small, slow-growing nature makes it a perfect fit for small gardens, courtyards, and large containers. It can be used as a focal point to draw the eye and add a touch of sophistication to any design.

While not a major wildlife plant, its dense canopy provides shelter and potential nesting sites for small birds. The leaf litter contributes to rich, organic matter in the soil.

SpeciesAcer shirasawanumFullmoon Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Very long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site protected from harsh sun and strong winds.
Ensure the soil is moist, acidic, and extremely well-drained.
Dig a hole that is shallow and wide, about twice the root ball width.
Set the tree so its root flare is slightly above the soil line.
Backfill with amended soil and water in well.
Apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone.

Pro Tip

Provide morning sun and afternoon shade to develop the best leaf color without scorching the delicate foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods.
Protect from hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Mulch annually to keep the root zone cool and moist.
Provide shelter from strong, drying winds.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Don't perform heavy pruning, especially in spring when sap is flowing.
Avoid applying high-nitrogen fertilizers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Exquisite courtyard or patio specimenLuminous accent in a woodland gardenStunning container feature plant

Companion Plants

Hosta Hakonechloa macra Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'Heuchera Rhododendron

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Moon Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Autumn Moon Japanese Maple grow in?

Autumn Moon Japanese 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 Autumn Moon Japanese Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Autumn Moon Japanese Maple bloom?

Autumn Moon Japanese 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 Autumn Moon Japanese Maple need full sun?

Autumn Moon Japanese Maple does best in part shade.