Japanese Maple Trees | Acer palmatum | Small | Mature | Weeping | Bushy

The Acer Palmatum, commonly known as the Japanese Maple, is a small, elegant tree renowned for its stunning foliage. With leaves ranging from deep burgundy to bright green, this deciduous tree transforms through the seasons. It's prized for its unique leaf shape and vibrant autumn colors, making it a favorite in both traditional and contemporary gardens. Perfect for adding aesthetic charm to any landscape.

Japanese Maple Trees: A Symphony of Colour & Elegance


Japanese maple trees, with their vibrant crimson, emerald, golden yellow, or burgundy red leaves will bring magical beauty to your garden. Discover how to find the best Japanese maple tree for sale and transform your garden into a place of classy elegance and deep serenity.

If you are near Chichester, West Sussex, you are more than welcome to visit our Arundel Arboretum nursery and meet our experts. They will gladly chat with you, show you around, answer your questions, share some valuable advice, and offer you the best Japanese maple tree UK selection.

If you are looking to buy Japanese maple trees online, explore our web store and our carefully curated, both young and mature Japanese maple trees for sale.

The Types of Japanese Maple


There are two types of Japanese maple trees - Acer palmatum and Acer dissectum. Within these two types, there are hundreds of varieties with their own specific characteristics and colours.

  1. Acer palmatum.

The main characteristics of these Japanese maple trees are:

  • A variety of sizes – from dwarf to large
  • A wide range of habits – upright, spreading, pendulous, cascading
  • Lobed, palmate leaves of various shapes and colours
  • Brilliant colours of the autumn foliage
  • Resistant to frost
  • Prefers partial shade

Several popular cultivars of Acer palmatum are:

2. Acer dissectum (Laceleaf Japanese maple).

Very good option if you are looking for small Japanese maple trees. The main characteristics of these Japanese maples are:

  • Smaller size compared to Acer palmatum
    Graceful, cascading, or weeping habit
  • Deeply lobed and finely divided, fern-like leaves
    Stunning foliage colours – especially beautiful in autumn
  • Thrive in partial shade
  • Best Japanese maple trees for small gardens uk

Several popular cultivars of Acer dissectum are small Japanese maples like:

How to Choose and Buy Japanese Maple Tree?

If you want to buy Japanese maple tree, there are several things to consider before buying.

1. Location

Decide where you are going to plant your Japanese maple. Will it be in full sun or half-shade most of the day? This is very important when choosing the cultivar.

2. Size

Estimate the size of the space available for your Japanese maple tree. Then take into consideration the size of a mature tree when choosing the variety to plant.


3. Hardiness

Almost all Japanese maples are resistant to frost but not all can withstand very low temperatures. Choose the type that is suitable for the climate conditions of your region.


4. Leaf Shape


Do you prefer fern-like, lacy leaves of Acer dissectum or lobed, palmate leaves of Acer Palmatum? Bear in mind that Acer dissectum leaves are more sensitive to the sun.


5. Colour


Do you want a red Japanese maple tree or the one transforming from red in spring to green in summer? Do you like variegated variants with white, cream, gold, and pink on their foliage? Or do you prefer dark purple Japanese maple trees? The choice becomes even harder when you realize how rich and beautiful is the spectrum of Japanese maple autumn colours.

Choosing the perfect Japanese maple tree can be hard work and an overwhelming experience. If you feel you need help and expert advice, reach out to us, call us, or email us. If you are near Chichester, come to visit us at Arundel Arboretum. We will be more than happy to help you!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do Japanese maple trees grow in the UK? Yes, Japanese maples are easy to grow in the UK.
  • Where to buy a Japanese maple tree? You can find a Japanese maple tree for sale in specialty tree nurseries, garden centres, arboretums, Japanese maple tree farm, and even local garden shows and sales. You can also buy Japanese maple tree online.
    When buying Japanese maple trees, consider purchasing from reputable nurseries. Arundel Arboretum is a reputable and reliable retail nursery with over 40 years of experience. You are welcome to visit us in Chichester, West Sussex, or to explore our online store and find the best Japanese maple tree sale UK.
  • What is the prettiest Japanese maple tree? That is subjective and depends on personal preferences since there are numerous cultivars of Japanese maples with different characteristics. Still, some cultivars are considered exceptionally attractive. Here are a few: Sango-kaku, Mikawa-yatsubusa, Orangeola, Osakazuki, Bloodgood
  • When should I buy a Japanese maple UK? Potted trees can generally be planted through the year, however if planted in the summer - you will need to ensure you give it plenty of water. In the UK, the best time to plant a Japanese maple tree is late autumn to early winter. Planting during this dormant period, allows the tree to establish its roots before the growth period in spring. Also, the soil is still workable. If you miss this period, you can also plant Japanese maple in late winter and early spring.
  • How long do Japanese maples live? Japanese maple trees can live for several decades, but some species are known to survive more than a century. Their longevity depends on various factors, such as the type of cultivar, environmental conditions, and overall care.
  • Do Japanese maples grow fast? The growth rate of Japanese maple varies based on the specific cultivar, environmental factors (sunlight, soil quality, moisture), and proper care (watering, fertilization, pruning). In general, they are slow to moderate growers. When young, they grow slower because they tend to establish a strong root system and good branch structure before vertical growth.
  • How sensitive are Japanese maples? Japanese maples are sensitive to certain conditions. For example: Direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, can scorch their leaves. The lack of sunlight can cause less vibrant colours of their foliage. Compacted and poorly-drained soils can lead to root rot. Over-watering and under-watering can lead to stress. Extreme weather conditions can cause serious harm. They are susceptible to certain diseases and pests.
  • How much cold can a Japanese maple tolerate? Japanese maple trees are resistant to frost, but their tolerance to cold temperatures varies depending on the cultivar. Some cultivars are capable of surviving up to -29°C. Many can withstand temperatures from -18 to -23°C. Most of the cultivars, without any major problems, can withstand temperatures between -12 and -18°C. However, all Japanese maples should be adequately prepared for winter.
  • How do you prepare Japanese maples for winter? To prepare Japanese maples for the winter, you can: Water heavily before below temperatures drop to zero. During the dormant period, water only when the soil is completely dry. Mulch to insulate the roots and avoid the damage caused by frost Wrap the trees with burlap before heavy snows or strong winds
  • Do Japanese maples like heat? Japanese maple trees like cool and moderate climates and don’t like too much heat. They can struggle in regions with hot summer climates. Heat and direct sunlight can lead to scorching of leaves and stress due to soil drying. With the right measures and proper care, Japanese maples can still thrive in hot climates.
  • How do you revive a dying Japanese maple tree? You must carefully inspect the plant and detect the problem. The common problems are: Poor soil, Improper watering, Diseases, Pests, Environmental stress. Some of the solutions may be: Improving the soil quality with fertilization. Keeping the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged or too dry. Treating diseases and pests with appropriate measures. Protecting the tree from extreme weather conditions. Preventing root rot and other root issues. If problems persist, the best thing to do would be to consult a certified arborist.
  • Are there any Japanese maple trees for sale near me? If you are looking for a Japanese maple tree UK and you are near Chichester, come and visit our Arundel Arboretum nursery. If you are not near us, we invite you to explore our online store and find your perfect plant. The rest is on us. If you have any questions or if there's anything we can assist you with, please feel free to reach out.
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