Japanese Maple (acer palmatum)

Japanese Maple (acer palmatum)

20-40cm
£1.56
Skip to product information
Japanese Maple (acer palmatum)

Japanese Maple (acer palmatum)

£1.56
Height20-40cm
Elegant, slow-growing small tree or large shrub with graceful branching and finely lobed leaves. Offers multi-season interest: attractive spring/summer foliage, spectacular autumn colour (reds, oranges, yellows), and winter structure. Compact size (typically 2–8 m) suits smaller UK gardens, courtyards or containers; hardy (generally once established in a suitable spot. 
Planting advice
  • Timing: Plant while dormant, typically October/November to March. Avoid frozen or waterlogged soil.
  • Site: Sheltered from strong winds and late frosts. Partial/dappled shade is ideal (many tolerate some sun if soil stays moist; red/purple forms need more light for best colour). Moist but free-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred; improve heavy or poor soils with organic matter. Give roots space and avoid competition from nearby plants.
  • Preparation: Keep roots moist and covered until planting. 
  • Planting: Dig a hole no deeper than the roots but 2–3 times wider. Position so the root collar/flare sits at or just above soil level (plant shallowly—no more than about 2.5 cm of soil over the main roots). Spread roots naturally, backfill with excavated soil (optionally mixed with compost), and firm gently to remove air pockets.
  • Aftercare: Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist (especially through the first growing season). Apply a mulch of well-rotted organic matter or bark, keeping it clear of the stem. Stake only if needed in exposed sites. Protect young foliage from scorching winds or extreme sun.

You may also like