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Full moon maple Aconitifolium

Acer japonicum Aconitifolium

The Acer japonicum 'Aconitifolium' enchants with finely dissected leaves and vivid autumn colours. A compact, elegant maple ideal for shaded gardens and tranquil landscapes.

Plant height
40/50 cm in a 1 liter pot

24 €
TTC

Quantity

Delivery expected from 08/12/2025 if ordered before 12:00 p.m.

Description

Height at maturity 2 to 4 m

Wingspan at maturity 2 to 3 m

Exposure partial shade

Flowering April

Hardiness -25°C

Origin Japan

Full moon maple Aconitifolium - Acer japonicum Aconitifolium

Key Characteristics

The Full moon maple, or Acer japonicum ‘Aconitifolium’, is a refined ornamental tree celebrated for its deeply divided foliage and spectacular autumn colours. It unfolds a new visual delight each season: delicate green leaves in spring, dense textured greenery in summer, and fiery shades of scarlet, orange, and gold in autumn. Perfect for Japanese gardens, shaded borders, or small urban spaces, this tree brings structure and serenity wherever it grows. Highly cold-hardy and easy to grow, it requires minimal maintenance and thrives in humus-rich soil.

Origin and History

Acer japonicum is native to the mountainous woodlands of central and southern Japan, especially on the island of Honshū. The cultivar ‘Aconitifolium’, named for its leaves that resemble those of the monkshood plant (Aconitum), was introduced to Europe in the 19th century. It quickly earned acclaim for its exceptional autumn display and graceful, compact form. Like its relative Acer palmatum, it belongs to a long horticultural tradition of Japanese ornamental maples and is cherished by collectors and landscapers alike.

Description and Habit

This maple grows with a rounded, elegant shape, branching from the base and forming a layered canopy.

Mature height: 2 to 4 meters (up to 5 m under ideal conditions)
Spread: 2 to 3 meters
Foliage: Deciduous, finely lobed (7 to 11 lobes), rich green in summer, changing to vibrant autumn hues
Growth rate: Moderate (15–25 cm per year)
Lifespan: Several decades
Hardiness: Excellent (down to –25 °C)

Flowering

Flowering occurs in early spring, often as the leaf buds begin to open.

Flowers: Small, reddish to purplish, grouped in delicate clusters
Interest: Subtle but attractive to bees and early pollinators
Fragrance: None, but melliferous

Fruiting

After flowering, the tree produces distinctive winged samaras through summer.

Type: Small, dry, reddish-brown seed pods
Decorative use: Modest, adds texture in late summer
Non-edible, but safe for pets and birds

Sun and Soil

This maple flourishes in partly shaded areas where it receives gentle light without harsh midday sun.

Ideal exposure: Dappled light or morning sun
Soil preferences: Acidic to neutral, humus-rich, moist but well-drained
Avoid: Chalky, compacted, or overly dry soils
Tip: Performs beautifully under a light tree canopy such as birch or oak

Planting

Best time: Autumn (Oct–Nov) or early spring (Feb–Mar)
Preparation: Mix compost and ericaceous material into the planting hole
Method: Ensure root collar remains above soil level; water thoroughly after planting
Spacing: Allow at least 2 m from other trees or structures

Watering Needs

First two years: Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer
Mature trees: Fairly drought-tolerant, though prefers evenly moist soil
Tip: Use a mulch layer to conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds

Pruning

Not necessary under normal conditions – tree forms a natural, graceful silhouette
Best time: Late winter before sap rises
Technique: Remove deadwood or crossing branches only
Caution: Avoid heavy pruning – maple wood heals slowly

Propagation

Common method: Grafting onto Acer palmatum rootstock to preserve cultivar traits
Seed propagation: Possible, but offspring may not be true to type
Recommendation: Buy grafted plants from a reputable nursery

Garden Uses

Ideal for:

Japanese or Zen-style gardens
Shady mixed borders alongside azaleas, ferns, hostas, or hydrangeas
Small gardens or container planting
Visual focal points near patios, paths, or water features

Design tip: Pair with simple, broadleaf companions to emphasise its delicate texture.

Seasonal Interest

Spring: Fresh green leaves with subtle red blossoms
Summer: Dense, textured greenery with graceful form
Autumn: Show-stopping colours in red, orange, and gold
Winter: Bare architectural branches with strong silhouette

Resistance and Pests

Generally disease-resistant in suitable growing conditions
Sensitive to: Sunburn, wind desiccation, and chlorosis in alkaline soils
Occasional pests: Aphids, mites – rarely cause serious harm
Preventative care: Shelter from strong sun and wind, use acidifying mulch

Growing Tips

Apply mulch annually (shredded leaves or pine bark)
Enrich soil with compost in winter
Monitor watering during droughts
Avoid disturbing roots – they are shallow and delicate

The full moon maple 'Aconitifolium' is a standout ornamental tree for gardeners seeking texture, seasonal colour, and structure. With its deeply cut foliage and fiery autumn display, it’s ideal for small gardens, shaded patios, or mixed borders. Easy to care for, cold-hardy, and highly decorative, it brings timeless beauty to classic and contemporary landscapes alike. Its modest size and elegant form make it perfect for Zen-inspired designs or as a solo feature. Whether in the ground or in a large container, Acer japonicum ‘Aconitifolium’ provides long-lasting charm with minimal effort.

Features

Common name : Full moon maple Aconitifolium
Family : Aceraceae
Category : tree
Spread : 2 to 3 m
Foliage : deciduous
Color of flowers : red
Fruit : winged samaras
Use : isolated - shrubbery
Soil : acid
Habit : rounded, slightly tiered shape
Enemies : nothing to report
Possible diseases : resistant to diseases

Expédition & livraison

How does the delivery work?

As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.

Our delivery methods

Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).

	Bpost livraison à domicile Delivery scheduled between the 08/12/2025 and 08/13/2025
	Mondial Relay Delivery scheduled between the 08/13/2025 and 08/15/2025
	DPD livraison à domicile Delivery scheduled between the 08/13/2025 and 08/14/2025
	DPD livraison en point relais Delivery scheduled between the 08/13/2025 and 08/14/2025
	Bpost point d’enlèvement Delivery scheduled between the 08/12/2025 and 08/13/2025