Vitifolium Full Moon Japanese Maple

Vitifolium Fullmoon Maple (Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium')

Vitifolium Fullmoon Maple (Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium') is a robust small tree noted for very large, grape like leaves that create bold texture, a rounded, well branched habit, and outstanding fall color that shifts through gold, orange, and crimson; it excels as a specimen in woodland borders and open shade.

Distinctive Features

'Vitifolium' carries broad, deeply lobed leaves up to 6 to 10 inches across, delivering dramatic foliage mass and some of the most reliable multi color fall displays among full moon maples.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter.
• Water: Consistent moisture; avoid drought and waterlogging.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 7.
• Mature Size: 15 to 20 ft tall, 15 to 20 ft wide, rounded canopy.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Large leaves and fiery fall color anchor lawns and beds.
• Woodland Borders: Bold texture beneath taller trees and along paths.
• Mixed Shrub Borders: Contrasts with conifers and fine textured perennials.
• Shade Gardens: Brightens dappled light with big leaf presence.
• Near Water Features: Reflective autumn color by ponds and streams.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to maintain even moisture.
• Pruning: Light structural pruning in late winter; avoid heavy midsummer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture and moderate temperature; keep mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide airflow to reduce leaf scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in well drained soil.

Why Choose Vitifolium Fullmoon Maple?

• Spectacular Fall Display: Consistent gold, orange, and crimson tones.
• Bold Foliage: Extra large leaves add dramatic texture.
• Cold Tolerant: Reliable performance in northern gardens.
• Manageable Size: Ideal scale for residential landscapes.
• Four Season Structure: Full canopy in season and a refined winter silhouette.

For peak color and vigor, site in bright morning light with afternoon shade and maintain steady, well drained soil moisture.