Green Japanese Maple Acer 20/40cm (9cm)

The Green Japanese Maple – Acer palmatum brings classic elegance and year-round interest to gardens of all sizes. This seed-grown specimen offers the timeless beauty of the species in its pure form, displaying the characteristic palmate leaves and graceful branching structure that have made Japanese maples beloved by gardeners for centuries. Supplied at 20-40cm in a 9cm pot, this young plant represents excellent value and the satisfaction of nurturing your own tree from an early stage.

Seed-grown Japanese maples develop unique individual characteristics, ensuring your tree will be truly one of a kind. The deeply lobed, hand-shaped leaves emerge fresh green in spring, creating a delicate canopy that filters dappled light beautifully. Throughout summer, the foliage maintains its verdant colour, providing a cooling presence in borders, containers, or as a specimen plant. Come autumn, the real spectacle begins as the leaves transform into brilliant shades of orange, red, and crimson before falling to reveal the elegant winter silhouette of fine branches.

Acer palmatum thrives in the temperate conditions found across Britain, appreciating protection from harsh winds and scorching afternoon sun. This adaptable tree performs best in partial shade, though it tolerates sunnier positions provided the soil remains consistently moist. The naturally compact growth habit and slow development make it perfect for smaller gardens, courtyard spaces, and container cultivation on patios or balconies.

Care Guide

Plant your Japanese maple in well-drained, moisture-retentive soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid heavy clay that becomes waterlogged, and steer clear of alkaline soils which can cause leaf yellowing. A slightly acidic to neutral pH suits this species perfectly. Choose a sheltered spot away from early morning sun in frost-prone areas, as rapid thawing can damage tender spring growth.

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, maintain consistent moisture during dry spells, particularly for container-grown specimens which dry out more quickly. Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base each spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and gradually improve soil structure as it breaks down.

Feed annually in early spring with a balanced fertiliser or a specialist ericaceous feed. Avoid high-nitrogen formulations which encourage soft growth vulnerable to frost damage. Container-grown plants benefit from additional feeding during the growing season, applied at half strength every four to six weeks.

Pruning requirements are minimal. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches during late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant, avoiding spring when sap flow is heaviest. The natural form of Acer palmatum is inherently attractive, so resist heavy pruning which can spoil the elegant structure.

Protect young plants from late spring frosts by covering with horticultural fleece when frost is forecast. Container plants can be moved to more sheltered positions during severe weather. Watch for aphids on new growth in spring and treat promptly if necessary to prevent leaf distortion.

Ultimate height
4–8 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres