Japanese Maple

Scientific Nomenclature: Acer palmatum

Common Name: Japanese maple, palmate maple

Mature Height:10–25 feet

Mature Spread:10–25 feet

Growth Rate: Slow

Attracts Wildlife: Pollinators, select moth species, birds

Messiness: Leaves turn and drop in autumn. Reddish, papery-winged samaras mature and drop in autumn as well.

Shape: Round/Spreading

Native to Kentucky: No

Preferred Soils: Japanese maples prefer moist, well-drained loam soils rich in organic matter.

Screening: Should not be planted for use as a screening or privacy tree.

Drought Tolerance: Japanese maple are prone to dying during periods of drought, well-established trees are more likely to survive.

Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous

Pruning: No pruning is technically necessary other than to remove deadwood or damaged branches. Some prefer to prune this species artistically, removing thin interior branches to better expose the graceful form of the main limbs. The form of this tree, especially in winter without leaves, makes a great focal point in the landscape.

Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one Japanese maple will:

• Sequester ~362 pounds of CO2.
• Reduce stormwater runoff by 198 gallons.