Ao Jutan Full Moon Japanese Maple

Ao Jutan Full Moon Japanese Maple (Acer japonicum 'Ao jutan')

Ao Jutan Full Moon Japanese Maple is a rare laceleaf-style japonicum with a broad, cascading habit and finely lobed, blue green foliage that drapes elegantly over stones, walls, and berms. Low and wide by nature, it shines as a focal specimen and finishes the season with outstanding orange, red, and purple fall color.

Distinctive Features

Finely cut lobes and sublobes create a true weeping, dissected look on a japonicum, with leaves that often persist about two weeks longer than many palmatums. Naturally short and wide, it forms a graceful, ground-embracing silhouette that reads clearly in all seasons.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun and afternoon shade are ideal; protect from hot, drying winds to reduce leaf scorch.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, organic rich soil; slightly acidic to neutral.
• Water: Even moisture, especially in summer; do not allow prolonged dryness.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 2 ft tall and 5 to 6 ft wide, slowly spreading with age.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Low, cascading form and luminous fall color anchor courtyards and entry views.
• Japanese Gardens: Complements stone, water, and moss with refined texture.
• Rock and Wall Plantings: Drapes beautifully over boulders and retaining walls.
• Woodland Edge: Bright foliage detail under high, filtered canopies.
• Large Containers: Suits sheltered patios where light and moisture can be managed.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly the first two seasons; increase frequency during heat.
• Pruning: Minimal; tip-thin after leaf-out to refine shape, avoiding heavy winter cuts.
• Fertilizing: Light spring feeding with a balanced, slow release fertilizer or compost.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 inch organic mulch to moderate soil temperature and retain moisture, keeping it off the trunk.
• Notes: Site with afternoon shade and wind protection to keep leaves pristine through summer.

Why Choose Ao Jutan Full Moon Japanese Maple?

• True Weeping Japonicum: Laceleaf look on a species prized for durability and fall color.
• Compact Architecture: Naturally low, wide habit fits intimate spaces.
• Extended Season: Foliage often lingers longer into fall than many palmatums.
• Textural Drama: Finely cut leaves bring movement and shadow play.
• Design Versatility: Equally effective beside water, stone, or as a terrace specimen.

Plant where it receives morning light, afternoon shade, and steady moisture, and it will develop a luminous cascade of foliage that draws the eye all season.