Acer palmatum ‘Ichigyoji’ (Japanese Maple)

Acer palmatum ‘Ichigyoji’ is an open deciduous tree with pretty foliage of lobed palm-shaped leaves that emerge gold in spring and turn a vibrant orange in the fall before shedding to the ground. As they fall, they expose the rough gray bark and red branches, adding a much-needed splash of color to the winter landscape. Small red flowers appear before the leaves in mid-spring, which give way to red fruits in fall. Vigorous, this maple tree features an upright, more or less rounded habit and makes an outstanding four-season tree enjoyed by all gardeners as it graces the landscape.

• Grows up to 20 ft. tall (6 m) and 25 ft. wide (7.5 m).
• 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 can be tolerated. A lack of soil moisture or excessive exposure can cause leaf scorch.
• Perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens and containers.
• 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 palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia.