About

Acer circinatum 'Sunglow' is a compact, deciduous tree that typically reaches around 2 meters in height. In spring, its small, rounded leaves showcase a blend of apricot and peach hues, which transition to a pale green with orange veining during the summer months. As autumn arrives, the foliage shifts to shades of plum-red, purple, and crimson. This variety produces hanging clusters of small flowers in purple and white during the spring, which are succeeded by brownish, winged fruits.

About the genus

Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Sand, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs, Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in any moisture-retentive, well-drained soil in a sheltered position. Leaf colour is best in partial shade, although full sun can be tolerated if soil is reliably moist. Leaf scorch can be caused by lack of soil moisture or excessive exposure. Suits container cultivation but attention to watering is needed in dry spells during the growing season. See Japanese maples cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 1, if necessary, from late autumn to midwinter only
Propagation
Propagate by grafting in late winter or softwood cuttings
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