Kamagata Japanese Maple

Kamagata Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kamagata')

Kamagata Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kamagata') is a refined, compact cultivar cherished for its delicate foliage, controlled growth, and brilliant seasonal transitions. Named by Japanese maple authority J.D. Vertrees, this selection is one of the finest dwarf varieties available. In spring, it produces vibrant green leaves tipped in red, maturing to soft green in summer, and igniting into an intense mix of red, orange, and yellow come fall. Its modest size, elegant shape, and excellent hardiness make it an ideal choice for small gardens, containers, and collectors seeking reliable color and form.

Distinctive Features

'Kamagata' features small, deeply lobed leaves that offer a soft texture and exceptional color clarity throughout the seasons. Its foliage emerges with a bright red flush, gradually transitioning to light green with red-tinged margins, and ending in a brilliant autumn display. The growth habit is upright and vase-shaped when young, maturing into a rounded form. Typically, this variety reaches 4 to 5 feet tall and wide in 10 to 15 years, making it well-suited to tight planting spaces and formal designs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full morning sun to partial shade; protection from intense afternoon sun in hotter climates helps prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; maintain consistent moisture during dry spells and while establishing.
• Humidity: Performs best in moderate humidity; provide good airflow in denser plantings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy and resilient in a range of temperate garden settings.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Offers strong seasonal color and tidy structure in tight garden beds or borders.
• Containers: Thrives in pots on patios, terraces, or entryways where its color changes can be fully appreciated.
• Japanese-Style Gardens: Perfect for structured, minimal designs or rock garden settings.
• Foundation Plantings: Neatly sized for use along walkways, under windows, or near entry points.
• Collector Specimens: A must-have for Japanese maple enthusiasts due to its pedigree and performance.

Low Maintenance Care

Kamagata is easy to grow and requires very little shaping thanks to its naturally tidy growth. It performs best with regular watering and a spot that offers some shelter from harsh conditions.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Pruning: Light structural pruning in late winter or early spring; avoid heavy cuts.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; avoid excessive nitrogen.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most pests and diseases when grown in ideal conditions.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zones 5�8; apply mulch in late fall to protect roots from temperature swings.

Why Choose Kamagata Japanese Maple?

Kamagata stands out for its consistent performance, vibrant seasonal display, and graceful shape�offering elegance in a compact form for a wide range of garden applications.

• Vivid Seasonal Color: Stunning spring, summer, and fall transitions in a compact tree.
• Space-Saving Size: Ideal for urban gardens, containers, and narrow beds.
• Elegant Form: Upright yet rounded growth habit provides natural balance and proportion.
• Collector-Recommended: Selected and named by J.D. Vertrees, a hallmark of quality and performance.
• Low Maintenance: Easy care with minimal pruning and excellent adaptability.

For a Japanese maple that brings reliable beauty, compact elegance, and a legacy of horticultural excellence, Kamagata Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kamagata') is a smart and stylish addition to any landscape.