Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum

A small ornamental maple prized for delicate foliage and fall color; laceleaf (dissectum) cultivars like Crimson Queen form weeping mounds.

Sun

part shade (esp. afternoon shade in hot, high-UV climates); laceleaf/dissectum types most sensitive

Water

moderate

Mature size

dissectum (e.g. Crimson Queen) ~8-10 ft × ~10-12 ft

Bloom

Inconspicuous — grown for foliage, not flowers.

Hardiness

USDA Zones 5–8

Care guide

Quick ID

Small ornamental maple (*Acer palmatum*). Laceleaf / dissectum cultivars such as 'Crimson Queen' form low, weeping, finely-dissected mounds.

Sun & Site

Prefers part shade — afternoon shade matters in Draper's hot, high-UV summers to prevent leaf scorch, especially for laceleaf types. Keep soil consistently moist; protect from drying wind.

Pruning & Shaping

Minimal pruning. Thin for structure in the dormant season; avoid heavy cuts. For laceleaf forms, light shaping enhances the cascading habit.

Notes

A Crimson Queen in a full-sun bed (as in NW3) may show afternoon leaf stress — watch for scorch and consider afternoon shade if it struggles.