Deciduous And Flowering Trees
Tamukeyama Japanese maple
Acer palmatum 'Tamukeyama'
'Tamukeyama' Japanese maple creates a low dome of cascading branches and finely divided burgundy foliage. Summer leaves often remain purple-red, though color can soften with conditions, before brighter autumn reds appear. Typical dimensions of 6–8 feet tall and 8–12 feet wide make it a substantial specimen beside a patio, entry, or water feature. Leave space for trailing branches and keep the roots out of saturated ground. In Southwest Washington, shelter from drying wind and harsh afternoon heat helps preserve the delicate leaves. Maintain steady summer moisture in organic, well-drained soil, mulch, and let the natural layers guide any light pruning.
Ask about this plant
At a glance
- Mature height
- Typically 6–8 ft
- Mature spread
- Typically 8–12 ft
- Light
- Sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- USDA Zones 5–8
The right plant, the right place
Make room for something good.
A position near an entry, patio, or water feature allows space for the low canopy. Keep neighboring plants and paths clear of the spreading, overhanging branches.
Where to plant
Allow about 8–12 feet of spread and keep trailing branches clear of paths. Choose shelter from drying wind and afternoon shade where heat or dry soil may scorch the leaves.
Through the seasons
Purple-red foliage can soften or develop greener tones during summer. Brighter red autumn color follows, with intensity varying by site and season.
Southwest Washington gardens
Give it a good start.
Consistent water through dry Northwest summers helps keep the fine leaves in good condition. Choose a protected position rather than an exposed, hot planting beside reflective paving.
Soil, drainage & water
Prefers organic, slightly acidic soil that holds moisture but drains freely. Water consistently during dry weather and mulch the roots to reduce drying and keep the soil cooler.
A little care goes a long way
Growing well, season after season.
Preserve the cascading framework with only light pruning. Make any necessary cuts in dry weather during dormancy; late fall to midwinter is one suitable window.
Know what to look for
Common growing concerns.
Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.
Leaf scorch
The finely divided leaf edges can become brown and brittle after hot, dry weather.
Help your plant thrive
Check root moisture and sun exposure. Maintain regular watering and provide afternoon shade where needed.
Aphids
New leaves may curl or become sticky. Ants and dark sooty growth can appear around feeding colonies.
Help your plant thrive
Inspect tender shoots and rinse off small colonies. Avoid excessive nitrogen and conserve beneficial insects.
A little more inspiration
Keep exploring.
Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira', 1 - geograph.org.uk - 6785425.jpg
CC BY-SA 2.0 · Web-optimized
Lion's head Japanese maple
Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira'
Crinkled green foliage and an upright, sculptural outline distinguish this slow-growing Japanese maple, with gold, orange, and red autumn color in a sheltered garden.
Explore this plant
Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum
A versatile small tree with hand-shaped leaves, varied branching, and colorful autumn foliage; choose each species-grown Japanese maple for its individual form and character.
Explore this plant
Garnet Japanese maple
Acer palmatum 'Garnet'
Finely cut red foliage drapes over a broad, mounded framework, making 'Garnet' a colorful specimen for sheltered patios, garden edges, and generously sized beds.
Explore this plantGood gardens start with a conversation
Let’s find the right plant
for your place.
Ask our team about plant selection and current availability.