Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum

Japanese Maple leaves
Japanese Maple leaves
 
Features
Many cultivars have beautiful dissected and/or colored foliage; form can also be attractive; small red to purple flowers in May and June. 
 
Culture
Light shade; moist, well-drained soil; protect from late spring frosts. 
 
Cultivars
Numerous; check with local nurseries for availability in your area. 
 
Mature Height
0 Feet (Varies greatly by cultivar. Can be as small as 6 feet and as large as 50 feet, so careful selection of cultivars is needed to obtain a shrub.)
 
Size
Small
Medium
Large
 
 
Mature Width
0 Feet (Varies greatly by cultivar)
 
Mature Form
Rounded to broad rounded; branches often produce a layered effect. 
 
Native To:
Japan, China, Korea 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Border
Massing
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Purple
Red
Variegated
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Orange
Purple
Red
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease

Insect Relative Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Challenging to grow in zone 5. Select cultivars not only for small size and ornamental attributes, but also for winter hardiness.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic