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How to Grow Japanese Maple

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

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Plant nursery stock — skip years of growing from seed.

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Supplies You'll Need

Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Acer palmatum
Category tree
Type Deciduous Tree (nursery stock)
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Part Shade (afternoon shade in hot climates)

Water

Moderate; consistent moisture, well-drained

Spacing

15 ft apart

Height

10-25 ft

Ready to Plant Japanese Maple?

Buy nursery-quality plants and skip years of growing from seed.

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Companion Planting Guide for Japanese Maple

Discover which plants grow well with Japanese Maple and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Named cultivars are grafted — they do not come true from seed. Buy a grafted nursery tree of the variety you want.

Japanese Maple Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Japanese Maple Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Japanese Maple? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Japanese Maple in early spring, 4 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Should I start Japanese Maple indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Japanese Maple isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Japanese Maple need? +

Japanese Maple requires part shade (afternoon shade in hot climates) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Japanese Maple? +

Space Japanese Maple plants 180 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Japanese Maple need? +

Japanese Maple has moderate; consistent moisture, well-drained water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Japanese Maple? +

Japanese Maple is not typically propagated by seed. Named cultivars are grafted — they do not come true from seed. Buy a grafted nursery tree of the variety you want.

About Japanese Maple

Small, sculptural tree prized for lacy foliage in reds, oranges, and greens — a focal point for patios and small yards. Shelter from hot afternoon sun and drying wind; plant in spring or early fall.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.