Moonrise Full Moon Maple

Moonrise Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Moonrise')

Moonrise Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Moonrise') is a vibrant, sun-tolerant Japanese maple cultivar known for its dynamic foliage and compact, upright growth. A hybrid selection developed to improve upon the well-known 'Aureum', Moonrise retains the luminous color of its parent but with stronger resistance to leaf scorch and greater adaptability to sun exposure. Its ever-changing seasonal hues and refined form make it an ideal focal point for both traditional and modern gardens.

Distinctive Features

'Moonrise' grows 8 to 12 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, vase-shaped canopy with graceful, upright branching. In spring, its rounded leaves emerge a rich red-pink, then quickly transition to bright chartreuse-yellow with pink highlights as they mature. Throughout summer, the foliage remains golden-green with reddish new growth, creating layered tones across the canopy. Fall brings a final burst of orange and red. This cultivar offers excellent sun tolerance compared to many yellow-leafed maples, making it one of the most versatile choices in the shirasawanum group.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; more sun-tolerant than 'Aureum', though afternoon shade is beneficial in hot zones.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils with good organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep consistently moist during dry periods, especially in sunnier locations.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate to high humidity; protect from drying winds.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; hardy in a wide range of temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Multicolored foliage and compact shape make it a stunning garden centerpiece.
• Mixed Borders: Provides vibrant contrast among darker evergreens and green foliage plants.
• Court Yards and Entry Gardens: Ideal size and color for use near walkways or outdoor seating areas.
• Japanese-Inspired Designs: Pairs beautifully with stones, water, and other refined textures.
• Containers: Grows well in large containers where its color and form can be showcased up close.

Low Maintenance Care

Moonrise requires minimal maintenance when planted in the right location. Its natural shape, strong foliage, and pest resistance make it easy to manage for gardeners of all experience levels.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; mulch helps conserve moisture and protect roots.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove any dead wood or lightly shape in late winter if necessary.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and color.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally free of pests and diseases; less prone to scorching and mildew than similar cultivars.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zones 5�8; protect roots in exposed sites with mulch or groundcover.

Why Choose Moonrise Full Moon Maple?

Moonrise Full Moon Maple offers year-round visual interest with its color-shifting foliage, strong form, and adaptability to varying light levels. It�s a refined, garden-ready cultivar that combines beauty with resilience.

• Dynamic Foliage: Red, yellow, and green tones shift through the season for nonstop interest.
• Compact Form: Perfectly sized for small gardens, containers, or prominent front yard placement.
• Sun Tolerant: Withstands more sun than most yellow-leaved maples without scorching.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow, shape, and maintain in both formal and informal settings.
• Collector Favorite: A must-have for fans of Japanese maples and unique foliage plants.

For vivid color, graceful structure, and improved performance in full sun, Moonrise Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Moonrise') is a standout addition to ornamental landscapes and curated garden spaces.