Acer palmatum Osakazuki - Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' is one of the brightest Japanese maples. Its vibrant light-green leaves, larger than that of the species, turn blood red in autumn!

Originating from eastern China, Korea, and Japan, this hardy Japanese maple has a bushy, rounded habit and brown bark. It develops magnificent deciduous foliage, which is light-green at first before turning gradually to bright red in autumn. The leaves are opposite, palmate, 10 cm to 12 cm (3.9 in to 4.7 in) long, with finely lobed edges. In April, it bears insignificant but pretty reddish flowers grouped in small clusters. From September, it produces interesting red fruits with curved wings, 3 cm (1.2 in) long. In autumn, its foliage explodes into magnificent, blazing colour.

Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' grows best in acidic, moist, fertile, well-drained soil, in a semi-shaded position and protected from cold, dry winds. High temperatures can cause leaf burn, which causes the leaves to fall prematurely. Mulch, water, and mist the foliage on hot evenings. Winter pruning is limited to balancing the branches. Treat against scale insects and Verticillium.

Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' is ideal as a standalone tree in a shaded lawn. It is also useful when grown to provide shade in ericaceous beds alongside azaleas, pieris, rhododendrons, and heathers. It can also be grown as a stunning bonsai in a flat dish.