What: Acer palmatum, also known as shaina dwarf red Japanese maple, is a low dense and compact globe of small red foliage. In spring, the leaves emerge a bright red, deepening to a dark maroon in ... What: This understated green Japanese maple does not show its true glory until the cool autumn season arrives.

Understanding the Context

Acer palmatum “Osakazuki” has one of the most brilliant reds of all Japanese maples. A ... Acer palmatum includes thousands of named cultivars with a variety of forms, colors, leaf types, sizes, and preferred growing conditions. Heights of mature specimens range from 0.5 to 25 m (1 1 ⁄ 2 to 82 ft), depending on type.

Key Insights

Acer is Latin for sharp and palmatum means shaped like a hand, referring to the leaves. Growth is slow to moderate, and the tree assumes a layered look with a low, dense, rounded top and spreading branches. What is Japanese Maple? Acer palmatum is a genus of deciduous shrubs or small trees native to Japan, Korea, and parts of Mongolia and Russia. Acer palmatum, commonly called Japanese maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows to 10-25' (infrequently to 40') tall.

Final Thoughts

It is native to Japan, Korea and China. The compact form of this dwarf variety and its unique arrangement of leaves, which are layered like roof shingles, make Acer palmatum ‘Mikawa Yatsubusa’ an excellent choice for growing in a pot and a top pick of bonsai enthusiasts. Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a small graceful tree that is a staple of Japanese gardens with numerous varieties and cultivars to choose from. Master growing Acer Palmatum in containers or garden beds with this expert Japanese Maple care guide. Find easy tips for pruning Japanese Maple branches, choosing the best soil, and keeping your tree’s vibrant seasonal color changes year after year. Acer palmatum show diverse form in both leaf (especially color and degree of dissection) and plant habit (from prostrate shrubs to tree form).

Because of the large number of named cultivars within the species, there have been several attempts to categorize them into several groups. A complete discussion of the range of Acer palmatum cultivars is beyond the scope of this forum, as hundreds exist. Listed below are some of the more common cultivars.