Japanese maple
Acer palmatum · Sapindaceae
📷 Kurt Stüber [1] · CC BY-SA 3.0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around japanese maple and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, red, orange or yellow depending on the variety
- Flowering
- April to May, small discreet red or yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 3 to 4 m in height, spreading and graceful habit
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15 to -20°C depending on cultivars
- Origin
- Japan, China and Korea
- Soil type
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability high.
Expert tips
The key tip
Japanese maple thrives in cool, well-drained, non-alkaline soil, sheltered from scorching sun and dry wind.
The common mistake
Placing it in full sun or compact soil quickly leads to burnt leaves and weak growth.
The pro's trick
Mulch with dead leaves or fine bark, keeping the collar clear.
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during growth and in dry spells. Avoid standing water which promotes root rot. In winter, reduce watering but don't let the soil dry out completely.
Light exposure
Prefer indirect light or partial shade, especially in the afternoon. Cultivars with red foliage tolerate direct morning sun better. Protect it from strong, drying winds that damage the delicate foliage.
Soil
Prepare rich, slightly acidic and well-draining soil or potting mix. Amend with compost or decomposed leaves to enrich and acidify the soil. Good drainage is essential to prevent root diseases.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering or in late winter to maintain the graceful form. Remove dead wood or badly placed branches. Avoid severe pruning which weakens the tree.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced or slightly acidic fertilizer in spring when growth restarts. Reduce feeding in summer. A mulch of fallen leaves gradually provides natural nutrients.
Diseases and pests
Watch for anthracnose in cases of excessive moisture and scale insects under the leaves. Powdery mildew can appear in hot, dry weather. Good drainage and air circulation prevent most problems.
Did you know?
The Japanese maple has been revered for centuries in Japan for its spectacular autumn tones, celebrated at autumn festivals called "momiji". Its finely cut foliage and flaming colours make it a true natural masterpiece, particularly prized in zen gardens and bonsais.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Sycamore mapleAcer pseudoplatanus
- Norway mapleAcer platanoides
- Field mapleAcer campestre
- Marronnier dindeAesculus hippocastanum
- Box elderAcer negundo
- Silver mapleAcer saccharinum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.