Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple

Samurai Sword™ Acer palmatum is an elegant statement tree for every landscape! Growing 25-30 feet tall, its dense foliage makes it an excellent shade tree for small gardens and yards. It displays burgundy, palmate leaves in spring and summer, giving way to vibrant red foliage in fall. This deciduous tree is moderately growing with an attractive upright form and layered branches, characteristic of Japanese maples.

Native to parts of Asia, Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple is deer resistant, drought tolerant, and low maintenance once established. It works as an eye-catching specimen plant while also being suited for mass plantings. In addition to providing valuable bird habitat, Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple’s crimson foliage complements the green leaves of other trees and shrubs in mixed borders. 

Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple Care

Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple needs well-drained, slightly acidic soil with high organic matter. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring after its first year of growth. Mature trees can survive for longer periods of time without additional watering, but young trees will need to be watered frequently until established. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to maintain soil moisture, being careful not to pile mulch against the trunk. Grow this maple in an open space where it will receive full sun or morning sun and afternoon shade. This particular variety of Japanese maple can also be planted near walkways and driveways; it will provide shade to these areas as it matures. 

Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple does not need routine pruning to control height. Trees can be pruned in summer or winter to maintain their oval canopy structure and encourage better air circulation and light penetration. Remove any crossing or vertical branches. Regularly prune out any dead branches. 

Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple Spacing

When planting Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple, consider its mature height and spread. Japanese maples have shallow roots that extend beyond their canopy. Plant Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple 20 feet apart from other trees, buildings, and pathways. This tree can also be underplanted with shade-loving perennials such as ferns, sedges, spring bulbs, and woodland wildflowers. Plant them at least a foot away from the base of the tree to avoid damaging the root system.

Samurai Sword™ Japanese Maple Information