Overview
Acer argutum is a bushy shrubs in the genus Acer, part of the Sapindaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Acer argutum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include architectural.
About
Acer argutum, commonly known as pointed-leaf maple, is a species of deciduous flowering tree native to Japan. It is a member of the genus Acer, in the family Sapindaceae. It has an upright growth habit and can reach heights of 10 m (33 ft) tall. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is very hardy across most of the UK (RHS H6). Suggested uses include architectural. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Grow in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position. Japanese maples prefer partial shade and protection from cold, drying winds. See acer cultivation.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acer argutum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acer
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Acer argutum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acer argutum
- Propagation
- Propagate by grafting
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Acer argutum?
Acer argutum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Acer argutum need?
Acer argutum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Acer argutum hardy in the UK?
Acer argutum has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Acer argutum?
Propagate by grafting.
More in the Acer genus
- Acer acuminatum

- Acer barbinerve
- Acer buergerianum 'Himcode'
- Acer buergerianum 'Naruto'
- Acer caesiumHimalayan maple

- Acer campbellii
- Acer campestre 'Schwerinii'

- Acer erianthumwoolly-flowered maple
