Japanese Maples

Uses:

  • Specimen or Focal Point
  • Containers
  • Small Gardens

Features:

  • Fall Color
  • Foliage Interest
  • Attractive Bark in Winter

Sunlight:

  • Partial Shade to Full Sun
  • 4+ Hours of Direct Sun

Growing Zones:

Japanese Maple Care

Japanese maple, also known as Acer palmatum, is a graceful deciduous tree that will elevate any outdoor space. The deeply lobed leaves come in various shades of green, red, purple, yellow, orange, and white, and can be wispy or rounded. These trees are known for their fall display when the leaves may turn fiery shades of red, orange, yellow, and bronze. Several selections grow slowly and stay compact, making them perfect for growing in containers.

Items 1 to 18 of 18 total
Items 1 to 18 of 18 total

About Japanese Maples

Waterfall Japanese Maple
Genus
Acer
Species
Palmatum
Family
Sapindaceae

Common Names:

Japanese Maple Cultivars


Native To:

Southeast Korea and central and south Japan

Plant Type:

Trees

Foliage Type:

Deciduous

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flower Color:

Gold/Yellow, Purple/Lavender, Red/Burgundy

Flower Bloom Time:

Spring

Growth Habit:

Broad, Dense, Rounded, Spreading

Attracts:

Moths, Pollinators, Songbirds

Tolerates

Drought

Resists:

Deer

How To Use Japanese Maples In The Garden

Japanese maples are well-known for their delicate, thin leaves and smooth, curved branches, making them a popular choice for gardeners looking to add beauty and charm. Typically reaching modest heights, they develop branching patterns that bring an artistic feel to outdoor spaces, whether planted in containers or in the ground. Many varieties have spectacular autumn leaf changes and bright spring growth. Their compact size and diverse leaf colors, ranging from deep reds to bright greens, make them superb focal points in garden designs.

Japanese maples work well as eye-catching centerpieces or subtle accents among shrubs and perennials. They are popular next to water features or nestled into partial shade with companions such as azaleas or conifers for a serene atmosphere. Many gardeners also showcase them in containers along patios or doorways, playing off of their distinctive shapes for an artistic arrangement. Others use them in foundation plantings or woodland borders, underplanting their gentle canopy with groundcovers and flowers.

Japanese Maples Care

Japanese maples require well-draining, slightly acidic soil and benefit from morning sun with afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Fertilization is generally unnecessary unless a soil test indicates nutrient deficiencies.

Pruning should be performed in early summer to remove dead or crossing branches and to maintain the tree's shape. In winter, protect the tree from freeze-thaw cycles by wrapping the bark and removing the wrap in early spring. When growing in containers, use a high-quality potting mix and a container with adequate drainage.

Learn More About Japanese Maples

Waterfall Japanese Maple