Katsura Japanese Maple

Katsura Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Katsura')

Katsura Japanese Maple is a compact, upright tree admired for its early spring display of golden orange leaves edged in red, which mature to soft green through summer and turn bright orange and yellow in fall; its tidy form and colorful foliage make it ideal for small gardens, entries, and courtyards.

Distinctive Features

Vibrant spring color emerges weeks ahead of most maples, creating early season impact; fine textured leaves and rounded habit provide balanced structure year round.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to part shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid prolonged drought or soggy soil.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 10 to 15 ft tall, 8 to 12 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Early spring color highlight for patios, borders, or entries.
• Containers: Performs beautifully in large decorative pots.
• Mixed Border: Provides contrast to dark evergreens and conifers.
• Woodland Garden: Brightens shaded edges with warm foliage tones.
• Japanese Garden: Complements stone, water, and moss plantings.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak in dry spells to maintain steady soil moisture.
• Pruning: Light structural edits in late winter; avoid heavy midsummer pruning.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow release fertilizer.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture and moderate temperature; keep off the trunk.
• Notes: Protect from drying wind to prevent leaf scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in proper conditions.

Why Choose Katsura Japanese Maple?

• Early Color: One of the first Japanese maples to leaf out each spring.
• Brilliant Seasonal Display: Orange, yellow, and red tones span the year.
• Compact Habit: Fits well in small gardens and containers.
• Refined Texture: Delicate leaves and balanced shape enhance design appeal.
• Proven Performer: Reliable, easy growing choice for home landscapes.

Katsura brings early season color and refined texture to any garden, thriving in bright morning light with afternoon shade and consistent moisture.