Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ (Full Moon Maple)

Noted for its leaves resembling those of grapes, award-winning Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ (Full Moon Maple) is a large, bushy, deciduous shrub or small tree of upright habit, becoming broad and rounded with age. Emerging bronze in spring, the large, rounded, palmate leaves mature to deep green as the season progresses. In fall, they turn magnificent shades of gold, crimson, and vivid scarlet before dropping, making this small, dense maple stand out in the landscape. Small red flowers appear in spring before the leaves and give way to samaras, which ripen in late summer to early fall, adding ornamental interest to the display.

Maple trees belong to the Sapindaceae family, which includes several popular ornamental trees such as Japanese Maple(Acer palmatum), Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum), Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata), Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), and Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum).

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Grows up to 10-15 ft. tall and wide (300-450 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Best leaf color in partial shade. Although full sun is tolerated, leaves may scorch in full sun in hot southern summers.
• Perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running. Fertilize in spring before the leaves emerge.
• It may be affected by horse chestnut scale, aphids, and verticillium wilt.
• Propagate by grafting or softwood cuttings.
• Acer japonicum is native to mountainous areas of Japan, Manchuria, and Korea.