Japanese Maple Varieties
Japanese Maples: Choosing the Perfect Variety & How to Care for It
Japanese Maples are among the most captivating trees for any garden, offering elegant structure, striking foliage, and year-round beauty. Whether you’re looking for a delicate, lacy accent or a bold focal point, these trees provide unmatched versatility. Below, we’ll explore the different types of Japanese Maple leaves, how to choose the right variety for your space, and essential care tips to keep your tree thriving.
With our selection of Japanese Maples from Kelley Green and Monrovia, you are sure to find one to enhance your garden. Please note that selection may vary by store.
The Beauty of Japanese Maples
Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) are prized for their graceful form and ever-changing foliage. Their leaves transform through the seasons, offering bright greens, deep reds, oranges, and even purples. These trees are ideal for adding structure to a garden, growing in containers, or serving as a striking focal point in the landscape.
Companion Plants for Japanese Maples
Understanding Japanese Maple Leaf Shapes
Japanese Maples are divided into categories based on their distinct leaf structures, each bringing a unique texture and character to the garden:
1. Lace-Leaf (Dissectum): Characterized by deeply cut, feathery foliage, these varieties often have a cascading, weeping habit. Perfect for containers, rock gardens, or as soft focal points.
- Crimson Queen
- Red Dragon
- Orangeola
- Inaba Shidare
- Garnet
- Seiryu (Upright Lace-Leaf)
- Otto's Dissectum
- Lemon Lime Lace
- Lil Annes Jewel
1. Broad-Leaf (Palmatum): Featuring classic maple-shaped leaves with bold lobes, these trees stand tall and provide striking autumn color. Ideal for shade gardens or mixed landscapes.
- Bloodgood
- Emperor I® (Monrovia)
- Fireglow
- Rhode Island Red
- Moonfire
- Osakazuki
- Shojo Nomura
- Summer Gold
- Beni Otake
- Marlo
- Mikazuki
3. Variegated Forms: Some varieties display multi-colored leaves, adding an extra level of interest with shades of pink, white, or cream mixed in with reds and greens.
- Peaches N Cream
- Peve Multicolor
- Olsen's Frosted Strawberry
- Grandma Ghost
- Manyo No Sato
- Higasyama
Choosing the Right Japanese Maple for Your Space
Selecting the best Japanese Maple for your garden depends on your climate, space, and desired aesthetic. Consider the following:
- Size Matters: Some Japanese Maples stay small (4-6 feet), while others can reach 20-25 feet tall. Dwarf varieties are great for patios and containers.
- Sunlight Needs: Most varieties thrive in morning sun with afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch, but some can handle full sun in cooler climates.
- Best Uses: Some varieties are best suited for containers, while others make excellent focal points or companion plantings in garden beds.
Japanese Maple Planting, Care & Watering Guide
To keep your Japanese Maple healthy and thriving, follow these tips:
Sunlight & Placement: Partial sun is ideal, especially in hotter climates. Protect from harsh afternoon sun to avoid scorched leaves.
Planting: For details on how to plant your tree, check out our How-To planting video. We recommend starting out with the right soil: E.B. Stone's Organic Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia Planting Mix in combination with a jump start fertilizer: E.B. Stone's Sure Start.
Soil & Drainage: Well-draining soil is essential. Consider amending with compost to improve texture and nutrients.
Watering Tips: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. Deep watering a couple of times a week is better than frequent shallow watering. Apply mulch around the base (not against the trunk), to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Pruning & Maintenance: Minimal pruning is needed. Trim in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove dead branches. Make sure to avoid heavy pruning, as it can weaken the tree's natural structure.
Protecting Japanese Maples from the Elements
Japanese Maples are fairly resilient but benefit from a little extra care in extreme conditions:
- Hot Climates: Provide afternoon shade and water deeply to prevent leaf scorch.
- Cold Winters: Mulch around the base to protect roots, and consider wrapping young trees in burlap if frost is a concern.
Find Your Perfect Japanese Maple!
With a wide selection of hand-picked Japanese Maples, you’re sure to find the ideal tree for your space. Visit your local SummerWinds Nursery and speak to one of our knowledgeable associates who can help you find the perfect Japanese Maple for your home.
