Acer japonicum 'Acontifolium'

fernleaf full moon maple

Deciduous Tree

Outstanding Qualities
Fernleaf full moon maple is a bold and beautiful tree. Its most outstanding quality is undoubtedly its foliage; its deeply dissected leaves create a rich texture in the landscape. In early spring the bright green new leaves and small red flowers are subtle yet lovely. In autumn, the bright green leaves of this handsome tree explode into color -- showing off shades of red and orange tinged with purple and yellow. One of the best small trees you can grow.

Culture Notes
Fernleaf full moon maple will develop fantastic and brilliant fall color in full sun as well as in light, open, or dappled shade. In shade the primary colors will be orange and yellow with a blush of red. It will grow best in rich well drained soil, but will tolerate sand and clay with regular summer watering. Very little pruning is needed to maintain a beautiful specimen; only remove poorly developed branches, dead wood or broken limbs.

—Courtesy Great Plant Picks

Growing Conditions

Zone: 6, 7, 8

Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade, Filtered Sun, Morning Sun, Open Shade

Water Needs: Average, Regular / Even

Description

Size: 120 - 180 tall x 96 - 120 wide
Shape / Form: Irregular, Upright
Foliage Texture: Bold, Medium
Foliage Quality: Bold, Medium

Features: Attractive Foliage, Fall Color


Fall Color: Mixed / Variable, Orange, Red, Reliable Fall Color Leaf Shape: Palm-shaped

Flower Color: Red


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Container, Mixed Border, Small Gardens, Specimen, Structure / Foundation
Special Situations: Courtyard / Urban Garden

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Three Seasons of Interest
Position / Role: canopy
Plant Behavior: Slow Growing
Collections: eGardenGo Favorite, Great Plant Pick, Plants That Earn Their Keep

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low


Suitable Substitutes

Acer japonicum 'Ed Wood' |

Plant Combos