Acer japonicum aka Japanese Maple

Acer japonicum, or full moon maple, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub. It belongs to the soapberry family, Sapindaceae. Its native range spans the Kuril Islands and northern and central Japan. It grows beneath taller trees in Japanese forests. The name full moon maple refers to its round leaves. Garden plants often reach 13–26 feet (4–8 metres) tall. Some sources report 30–40 feet (9–12 metres) in good conditions.

The tree grows slowly and forms a broad, rounded crown. It often has several trunks or branches near the ground. Older trees may lose their neat, round outline. Young bark is smooth and gray, then becomes scaly. Slender new twigs may be red or green. Older twigs turn brown. The simple leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. Each leaf has seven to eleven palmate lobes and toothed edges. Leaves turn red, orange, or yellow before falling in autumn.

Small red-purple flowers hang in clusters during spring, often in April. They appear before the leaves or as the leaves unfold. Though small, the flowers can add clear spring interest. Paired winged fruits, called samaras, follow the flowers. These turn reddish brown and ripen by late summer. Their two wings spread apart at about a right angle. The hanging fruit clusters remain visible beneath the leaves.

This maple prefers cool summers and shelter from strong winds. Partial shade helps preserve leaf colour and limits heat stress. It can take full sun where the soil stays moist. Moist soil with good drainage suits it best. It grows in sand, loam, or clay. Sources differ on pH, though several favour slightly acid soil. Most guidance places it in USDA zones 5–7. The RHS gives it a UK hardiness rating of H6. Dry soil, harsh sun, and exposed sites can scorch leaves.

Plant it as a single tree or in small groups. It suits woodland edges, courtyards, and gardens near patios. Its main landscape value lies in its shape and autumn leaves. Care needs are low, and serious pest damage is uncommon. Aphids, scale insects, mites, and caterpillars may still occur. Diseases include Verticillium wilt, leaf spots, root rots, and honey fungus. Late frost can harm new leaves. Winter cold may kill twigs or split bark.