Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental, Shade Tree (Small), Landscape Specimen
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Viridis' or a similar green-leafed Acer palmatum var. dissectum/matsumurae group member
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5-8 (sometimes 9); sensitive to extreme heat and drying winds.
About This Tree
A small deciduous tree or large shrub often featuring a multi-stemmed or low-branching habit. It develops a graceful, layered, and often spreading or weeping canopy and is prized for its architectural form and delicate foliage.
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite arrangement, simple leaves with deep palmate lobes (5-9 lobes). Soft green color in summer, often transitioning to vibrant yellows, oranges, or reds in fall. Finely serrated margins.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and thin bark. Generally gray or grayish-brown; young branches can be green or reddish. It does not become heavily furrowed with age, maintaining a sleek appearance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Japan, Korea, and China; widely naturalized in temperate gardens globally
Growing Season
Buds swell in early spring; flowers in April-May; lush foliage through summer; spectacular leaf color change in autumn; dormant in winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial sun to dappled shade; needs protection from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Low drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Typically 15-25 feet in height and spread, though some weeping cultivars stay below 8 feet. Slow to moderate growth rate; can live over 100 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for ornamental landscaping, bonsai, and fall color. Relatively resistant to many pests but sensitive to Verticillium wilt and root rot in poor drainage.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites for small birds; flowers provide nectar for pollinators like bees in spring; seeds (samaras) may be consumed by small mammals or birds.