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Japanese maple
Acer palmatum
The Japanese maple ( Acer palmatum ) enchants with delicate foliage and fiery autumn colours. A compact, elegant tree perfect for shaded borders, patios, or Zen-style gardens.
Description
Height at maturity
4 m
Wingspan at maturity
3 m
Exposure
Sun, partial shade
Flowering
april - may
Hardiness
-20°C
Origin
Japan, China, Korea.
Japanese maple – Acer palmatum
Key Characteristics
The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a highly esteemed ornamental tree, cherished for its graceful shape, finely lobed foliage, and spectacular autumn colours. Its delicate leaves shift from soft green or red in spring to bold shades of crimson, orange, and gold in autumn. With its modest size and refined silhouette, it is perfect for small gardens, containers, or Japanese-style landscapes. Low-maintenance and adaptable, it brings elegance and seasonal beauty to any outdoor space.
Origin and History
Native to the wooded mountains of Japan, Korea, and China, Acer palmatum has been cultivated for centuries. In Japan, horticulturists have selected cultivars for leaf form and colour since at least the 17th century. Introduced to Europe in the 19th century, it became a staple in ornamental and botanical gardens. The species name “palmatum” refers to the leaf’s hand-like shape, with five to seven lobes resembling fingers.
Description and Habit
The Japanese maple typically forms a multi-stemmed, rounded shrub or small tree, with an airy, layered canopy.
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Mature height: 2 to 5 metres
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Spread: 2 to 4 metres
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Foliage: Deciduous, finely dissected leaves; soft green in spring and summer, brilliant in autumn
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Growth rate: Slow to moderate (10–25 cm/year)
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Lifespan: Several decades
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Hardiness: Good (down to –20 °C), though sensitive to dry wind
Flowering
Flowering occurs in early to mid-spring, often simultaneously with leaf emergence.
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Period: April to May
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Flowers: Small, reddish-purple clusters
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Ornamental value: Discreet but charming, attractive to pollinators
Fruiting
After flowering, paired samaras (winged seed pods) develop.
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Appearance: Small, red to brown, with double wings
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Decorative: Yes, especially in late summer
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Edibility: Not edible, but harmless to pets and wildlife
Light and Soil Requirements
Japanese maple thrives in gentle light and rich soil, echoing its forest origins.
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Ideal exposure: Partial shade or morning sun
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Soil type: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral
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Avoid: Chalky, compacted, or excessively dry soils
Planting
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Best season: Autumn or early spring
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Preparation: Enrich the planting hole with compost and ericaceous material
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Method: Keep the root collar at soil level, water thoroughly, and mulch
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Spacing: Allow 2 metres from other trees or structures
Watering
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Young trees: Water regularly during dry spells in the first two years
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Mature trees: Tolerate light drought but prefer consistently moist soil
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Tip: Use organic mulch to retain moisture and enrich the soil
Pruning
Pruning is generally unnecessary, as the tree forms an elegant shape on its own.
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When: Late winter or very early spring
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How: Lightly thin out dead or crossing branches
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Caution: Avoid heavy pruning, as maples heal slowly and poorly
Propagation
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Professional method: Grafting onto Acer palmatum or Acer pseudoplatanus rootstock
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From seed: Possible, but seedlings may vary greatly
Garden Uses
Ideal for:
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Japanese gardens, Zen-inspired designs
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Borders with dappled shade, alongside hostas, ferns, azaleas
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Containers on terraces or patios
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Focal points near pathways, water features, or entrances
Design tip: Pair with broadleaf evergreens or ornamental grasses for contrast.
Seasonal Interest
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Spring: Delicate new leaves and subtle blossoms
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Summer: Lush, airy canopy with refined texture
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Autumn: Fiery display of red, orange, and golden hues
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Winter: Architectural silhouette with attractive branch structure
Resistance and Pests
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Generally healthy, if grown in the right conditions
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Sensitive to: Leaf scorch from hot wind, chlorosis in alkaline soil
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Pests: Rarely affected; possible aphids or spider mites
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Prevention: Choose a protected site, water regularly, and mulch annually
Growing Tips
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Add compost annually in winter
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Mulch with leaf litter or pine bark
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Avoid disturbing the root zone – shallow roots are sensitive
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Shelter from harsh midday sun and strong wind
The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a must-have for gardeners seeking elegance, texture, and vibrant seasonal interest. With its graceful habit, finely cut foliage, and blazing autumn colours, it enhances any garden space, large or small. Whether in borders, containers, or Zen-inspired settings, it brings timeless beauty and requires minimal care once established. This small tree is ideal for patios, woodland gardens, or modern landscapes, offering architectural structure in winter and a firework of colour in autumn. A versatile, hardy favourite among landscape designers and collectors alike.
Features
- Common name : Japanese maple
- Family : Acéraceae
- Category : tree
- Spread : 3 m
- Foliage : deciduous
- Use : massif, under wood, isolated, bonzaï
- Soil : rich and well-drained
- Habit : Spreading
- Earth to use : 50% universal potting soil and 50% heath earth
- Enemies : Mite - chenille - cochineal
- Possible diseases : Burn - scabies - root rot - black spots
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).
Customer reviews
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