Peridot Flame Japanese Maple

Peridot Flame Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Peridot Flame')

Peridot Flame Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Peridot Flame') is a brilliant small tree or shrub prized for its vivid spring foliage and compact, upright form. Named for its gemstone-like coloration, this cultivar opens with glowing chartreuse to lime-green leaves edged in soft red or pink. As the season progresses, the foliage deepens to a warm green before lighting up in shades of gold, orange, and red in autumn. It�s a dynamic choice for adding multi-season color to small gardens, patios, or woodland borders.

Distinctive Features

'Peridot Flame' produces finely lobed leaves that emerge in a luminous green flushed with red highlights in early spring. Its foliage matures to medium green in summer and finishes with vibrant fall tones that live up to its fiery name. With a moderate growth rate and upright habit, it typically reaches 6 to 8 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide in ten years. The delicate leaf shape and bold seasonal transitions make this tree a standout feature in any landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade is ideal; morning sun with afternoon protection helps preserve vibrant leaf color.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; slightly acidic pH recommended.
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture is key, especially during hot or dry spells.
• Humidity: Tolerates average humidity with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy across a broad range of temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Seasonal color shifts make this a standout in any landscape design.
• Containers and Courtyards: Compact size and fine texture suit patio and entryway displays.
• Woodland Gardens: Adds brightness and depth to shaded or dappled-light borders.
• Japanese and Zen Gardens: Offers structure and subtle movement within minimalist designs.
• Foundation Plantings: A great accent near buildings or garden walls where space is limited.

Low Maintenance Care

'Peridot Flame' is an easy-care maple that thrives with basic maintenance and protection from extreme conditions. Its upright habit rarely needs pruning to maintain a clean silhouette.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; avoid letting the root zone dry out completely.
• Pruning: Minimal shaping required; prune only in late winter to maintain structure and remove any dead or crossing branches.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy foliage development.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Performs well under proper cultural conditions with minimal pest concerns.
• Winter Care: Cold hardy and reliable; mulch helps regulate soil temperature and protect roots.

Why Choose Peridot Flame Japanese Maple?

'Peridot Flame' delivers showy foliage from spring through fall, all in a compact, easy-to-manage form. Its gemstone-inspired beauty makes it a valuable addition to modern and traditional landscapes alike.

• Gemstone-Inspired Color: Bright spring greens and red-tinged edges evoke the glow of peridot.
• Compact Upright Habit: Perfect for small gardens, containers, or narrow planting areas.
• Dramatic Fall Display: Golden orange and red tones brighten up the autumn garden.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily integrated into a wide range of design styles.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally elegant shape and strong performance with little upkeep.

For a brilliant combination of fresh spring tones, graceful form, and glowing fall color, Peridot Flame Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Peridot Flame') is a refined and radiant choice.