Jordan Full Moon Maple

Jordan Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Jordan')

Jordan Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Jordan') is a vibrant, upright-growing Japanese maple cultivar prized for its glowing yellow foliage, strong sun tolerance, and compact form. Introduced from Europe, �Jordan� stands out for its ability to maintain bright chartreuse to lemon-yellow tones throughout the growing season�even in partial sun. With its refined habit and multi-season interest, this cultivar is a popular choice for adding color, texture, and structure to shaded gardens and ornamental plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Jordan' reaches 8 to 12 feet tall and wide at maturity, forming a rounded, vase-like canopy with elegant, layered branching. The leaves are palmate and deeply lobed, emerging vivid yellow in spring and transitioning to chartreuse with soft pink or peach highlights as summer progresses. In fall, foliage turns shades of orange and red. Unlike many golden-leaved maples, �Jordan� is relatively sun-tolerant in cooler climates and resists the leaf scorch often associated with other yellow varieties. Its manageable size and glowing color make it a striking focal point in garden beds, borders, or containers.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best in partial shade; tolerates morning sun and filtered light in cooler regions.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture is key during hot weather or in sunnier locations.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate humidity; shelter from drying winds for best foliage quality.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�7; hardy and dependable in temperate gardens with winter protection in exposed sites.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Bright yellow foliage and layered form make it a standout in shaded or semi-shaded beds.
• Woodland Gardens: Pairs beautifully with ferns, hellebores, and other shade-loving perennials.
• Court Yards and Entryways: Compact size and vibrant color provide year-round elegance near walkways and entrances.
• Japanese-Inspired Landscapes: Blends seamlessly into minimalist, contemplative garden designs.
• Containers: Excellent in large planters for patios or balcony gardens with filtered light.

Low Maintenance Care

Jordan Full Moon Maple requires minimal pruning and is easy to care for when planted in the right location. Proper siting, consistent moisture, and protection from intense afternoon sun will ensure long-term performance and color.

• Watering: Maintain even soil moisture, especially during the first few years and in warm periods.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead wood or lightly shape in late winter or early spring.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth appears weak or stunted.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally free of major issues; occasional aphids or mildew may appear in poor air circulation.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zones 5�7; mulch roots in fall for protection in colder climates.

Why Choose Jordan Full Moon Maple?

Jordan offers luminous color from spring through fall, with more sun tolerance than many yellow-leaved maples. Its manageable size, graceful habit, and striking foliage make it a versatile addition to both traditional and modern landscapes.

• Bright Seasonal Color: Golden-yellow foliage holds throughout the growing season and finishes with warm autumn tones.
• Compact and Refined: Small stature and elegant branching make it ideal for high-visibility planting areas.
• More Sun Tolerant: Holds foliage well in partial sun without significant scorching.
• Four-Season Interest: Offers spring brightness, summer softness, fall color, and winter structure.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little intervention beyond proper siting and routine care.

For bright, golden foliage and a graceful, garden-friendly shape, Jordan Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Jordan') brings lasting beauty to shaded landscapes and ornamental plantings.