Skeeter's Broom Japanese Maple

Skeeter's Broom Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom')

Skeeter's Broom Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom') is a compact, upright dwarf noted for bright crimson spring foliage that deepens to burgundy in summer and finishes scarlet in fall; its short internodes and dense, narrow form deliver strong color and structure for small gardens, entries, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Witch's broom origin gives tight branching and petite leaves that read polished up close; reliable color and a vertical, space saving silhouette make it highly versatile.

Growing Conditions

Provide morning sun with light afternoon protection in hotter zones, along with evenly moist, well drained soil to preserve leaf quality and color.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color with several hours of morning sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist, especially in containers.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: About 6 to 8 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

Its compact footprint and upright habit fit where larger red maples will not.

• Focal Point: Saturated red foliage and tidy columnar form draw attention.
• Container Feature: Excellent for large pots on patios and entries.
• Entry Accent: Narrow width suits foundations and walkways.
• Mixed Border: Provides vertical color contrast among shrubs and perennials.
• Bonsai Training: Short internodes and small leaves favor detailed styling.

Low Maintenance Care

Minimal pruning and consistent moisture keep the canopy dense and foliage clean.

• Watering: Deeply water weekly during dry periods; increase frequency for containers in heat.
• Pruning: Light thinning in late winter to refine outline; avoid heavy summer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer over roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind shelter and avoid waterlogged soils to prevent leaf edge burn.

Why Choose Skeeter's Broom Japanese Maple?

Choose this cultivar for dependable red color, a small footprint, and naturally tailored structure.

• Compact Vertical Habit: Fits tight spaces without sacrificing presence.
• Seasonal Color: Crimson spring, burgundy summer, and scarlet fall.
• Refined Texture: Small leaves and close nodes create a polished look.
• Design Flexibility: Performs in containers, entries, and mixed borders.
• Easy Care: Low pruning needs and straightforward culture.

Place where morning light can illuminate new growth and emphasize the tree's tidy, upright form.