Shop all Japanese maple trees
Native to Japan and China, Japanese Maples are slow-growing, deciduous trees best known for their graceful, dome-shaped growth habit, distinctive pointed leaf shapes and stunning autumn colour. Acer palmatum varieties have deeply-lobed leaves in the crude shape of a hand, whilst dissected varieties have deeply-cut, light, almost feathery foliage. Synonymous with oriental gardens, Japanese maples make an effective stand-alone focal point or accent but can also be used in groups to provide a dramatic backdrop.
They are easy to grow and pest and disease free, preferring a shady spot that's sheltered from strong winds. Red and purple-leaved varieties need some sun to fully bring out their beautiful deep hues, whilst variegated Japanese maples need partial shade to prevent their foliage being scorched by the afternoon sun. They're best grown where they will have plenty of space and not have to complete with other plants around them. They're very effective in containers too using a John Innes No. 2 potting compost mixed with 25% sharp sand or grit to improve drainage.