About

Acer palmatum 'Aoyagi' is an upright, broadly canopied deciduous tree that reaches approximately 8 meters in height. Its notable pea-green bark and stems exhibit their most vibrant hue during the winter months. The tree produces fresh green leaves that measure around 5 cm in both length and width, characterized by five lobes, serrated edges, and a pointed tip, which transition to a rich yellow in the fall. In spring, it yields subtle clusters of small, purple-red flowers, which are succeeded by winged fruits that display a reddish tint.

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, Loam, Sand

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

Trees

Habit

Spreading branched

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

4-8 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

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. See Japanese maples cultivation

Pruning

Pruning group 1 from late autumn to midwinter only

Propagation

Propagate by layering in autumn, 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