Heartbeat Japanese Maple

Heartbeat Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Heartbeat')

Heartbeat Japanese Maple is a compact, weeping selection with cascading branches and small leaves that open bright red in spring, shift to bronze red in summer, and finish brilliant red in fall. Its low, wide form makes a striking accent in sheltered sites and containers.

Distinctive Features

Graceful, mounding habit with a true weeping outline provides year-round structure, while reliable seasonal color creates strong garden contrast in partial shade.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun with afternoon shade; protect from hot, drying winds to reduce scorch.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, organic rich soil; slightly acidic to neutral.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially in summer and containers; avoid soggy conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: About 3 to 4 ft tall and 4 to 5 ft wide in 10 years.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Brilliant spring and fall reds on a cascading form anchor entries and patios.
• Containers: Performs well in large, sheltered pots with managed light and moisture.
• Japanese Gardens: Drapes beautifully over stone and near water features.
• Foundation Planting: Softens architecture without overwhelming small spaces.
• Shaded Borders: Adds fine texture under high canopies with dappled light.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly the first two seasons; increase frequency during heat and in containers.
• Pruning: Light tip-thinning after leaf-out to refine shape; avoid heavy winter pruning.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced, slow release fertilizer or compost.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 in mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide afternoon shade and wind protection to keep leaves pristine and color strong.

Why Choose Heartbeat Japanese Maple?

• Color Impact: Bright spring red, warm summer tones, and vivid red fall color.
• Compact Weeping Habit: Low, cascading form fits intimate spaces.
• Design Versatility: Equally effective as a specimen or container accent.
• Textural Finesse: Fine foliage and draping branches add movement and detail.
• Reliable Performance: Consistent habit and color with sensible siting and care.

Plant where it receives morning light, afternoon shade, and steady moisture to maximize color while minimizing leaf scorch.