Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum
Elegant specimen tree with delicate, lacy foliage in rich reds and greens.
Care Instructions
Water deeply twice a week during the first 2 years. Established trees need watering during drought. Leaf scorch in summer often indicates water stress — mulch 4 inches deep to retain moisture.
Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal in hot climates. Full sun works in zones 5–6 with adequate moisture. Dappled light preserves red leaf color.
Well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in heavy clay without amending. Never plant near concrete (raises pH).
Seasonal Guide
Best Planting Time
Spring or fall. Avoid summer planting in hot climates — root establishment is difficult in heat. Container plants: spring is best.
Bloom / Growth Season
Insignificant flowers in spring. Leaf emergence in April is stunning. Peak fall color October–November (orange, red, gold depending on variety).
Dormancy
Fully deciduous. Prune only in summer or late fall (never spring) to avoid bleeding sap. Structure and branch architecture beautiful in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Leaf scorch (brown leaf edges in summer)
Move to afternoon shade. Increase watering depth. Apply 4-inch mulch ring. Scorch is cosmetic and does not kill the tree.
Verticillium wilt (branch dieback)
Prune affected branches 12 inches below wilt line. No chemical cure. Improve drainage and reduce stress to slow progression.
Aphids causing sticky honeydew
Natural predators usually control them. Spray strong water stream. Apply neem oil if infestation is severe.
Plant Details
USDA Zones
5b, 6a, 6b, 7a +2
Maintenance
low
Mature Height
6-25 ft
Native Regions
Japan, Korea, China
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