Japanese Sunrise Japanese Maple

Japanese Sunrise Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Japanese Sunrise')

Japanese Sunrise Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Japanese Sunrise') is a striking upright cultivar known for its brilliant winter bark and graceful form. While its foliage offers the classic seasonal beauty expected from Japanese maples, it�s the vivid coral-red to yellow bark on young branches�especially prominent in cold weather�that truly sets this tree apart. As temperatures drop, the bark intensifies in color, providing standout visual interest when most plants have faded. With elegant branching, dynamic color, and moderate size, it serves as an exceptional focal point year-round.

Distinctive Features

'Japanese Sunrise' produces medium green, palmate leaves in spring and summer that turn golden-yellow to red in fall. In winter, the bare branches reveal their most eye-catching trait: smooth bark that glows in bright shades of red, orange, and yellow�most vivid on the youngest stems. This cultivar typically grows 10 to 15 feet tall with a narrow, upright form and can reach 6 to 8 feet wide at maturity, making it suitable for both small gardens and larger landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; brighter bark coloration in colder climates and with adequate sunlight.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; slightly acidic is preferred.
• Water: Moderate; maintain consistent moisture, especially during summer and establishment.
• Humidity: Prefers average humidity; ensure good air circulation to protect foliage health.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; reliable in a wide range of temperate garden settings.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Winter bark color and upright form create a standout centerpiece in any season.
• Entryways and Walkways: Makes a striking statement near home entrances or garden paths.
• Mixed Borders: Adds vertical interest and year-round color contrast.
• Asian-Inspired Landscapes: Pairs beautifully with evergreens, stones, and water features.
• Winter Gardens: Provides essential off-season structure and color.

Low Maintenance Care

'Japanese Sunrise' is easy to maintain and thrives with basic care. Its upright habit requires little shaping, and its bark color develops best in well-sited conditions.

• Watering: Water regularly during the growing season, especially in heat or drought.
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in late winter to remove crossing or damaged branches and maintain structure.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support foliage and bark color.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resilient to most pests; ensure proper airflow to reduce fungal risks.
• Winter Care: No special protection required in Zones 5�8; mulching helps insulate roots.

Why Choose Japanese Sunrise Japanese Maple?

Japanese Sunrise delivers exceptional multi-season interest, combining traditional maple beauty with show-stopping winter bark, making it a valuable addition to any landscape.

• Brilliant Winter Bark: Coral-red and yellow tones brighten cold-season gardens.
• Compact Upright Form: Ideal for smaller spaces or narrow planting areas.
• Seasonal Foliage Color: Spring green to fiery fall hues offer evolving beauty.
• Versatile Design Fit: Works well in modern, traditional, or Japanese-inspired landscapes.
• Low Maintenance: Simple to grow with reliable year-round interest.

For a maple that dazzles in every season�especially winter�Japanese Sunrise Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Japanese Sunrise') is an outstanding focal point for gardens large and small.