Acer japonicum 'O isami'
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FULL-MOON MAPLE, JAPANESE MAPLE
Family: Aceraceae
Pronounced: AY-ser ja-PON-i-kum
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Trees.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 2-6, 14-16.
USDA zones: 5-8.
Heat zones: 7-1.
Mature size:
Height: 30 feet (10 m).
Width: 30 feet (10 m).
Leaf attributes:
Large orbicular leaves are 9-13 lobed. New growth hues are yellow to pink, turning dark green for its summer attire. Fall hues are scarlet, gold and orange with green.
Light:
Full sun to part shade.
Soil:
Humus rich, well-drained soil.
Feeding:
Do not fertilize.
Propagation Methods:
Graft in late winter. | Bud in late summer.
Pruning Methods:
Prune to shape in late fall to winter.
Pests and Diseases:
No significant problems.
Rainy Side Notes
Originating in Japan in 1911, Acer japonicum 'O isami' is an exceptional specimen tree for the garden or lawn. It’s a slow growing maple, with an airy, open, round canopy. The brilliant autumn leaves are decked-out in hues of scarlet, gold, yellow and orange suffused with green.
My resources rate this full-moon maple to USDA zone 7, but in our maritime climate, we can grow it in zone 8. Sadly, in southern zone 8 areas, it’s too hot for these wonderful trees.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed at Savage Plants & Landscape, Kingston, Washington.
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