Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' is a distinguished cultivar of Japanese maple, celebrated for its distinctive foliage and compact growth. This tree is an ideal selection for gardeners who desire a low-maintenance yet visually striking specimen that provides year-round beauty and adapts well to various garden environments.
Originating from a selection made by J.D. Vertrees at Maplewood Nursery in Oregon during the 1970s, this cultivar showcases a remarkable transformation throughout the seasons. In spring, the new leaves emerge in a yellow-green shade adorned with an orange-pink overlay, while summer sees them maintain a yellow-green color with a hint of orange. As autumn arrives, the foliage bursts into a vibrant display of orange, red, and gold, creating a stunning fall spectacle.
The tree exhibits a rounded, bushy form with angular branches, making it an excellent focal point in any garden. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH and prefers full sun to partial shade, with full sun enhancing its foliage color. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, to ensure consistent soil moisture, and minimal pruning is required to maintain its shape, ideally performed during the dormant season. This cultivar pairs beautifully with other Japanese maples, azaleas, hostas, and ferns, contributing to a cohesive garden aesthetic. It is hardy to temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and typically reaches a mature height and spread of 2.5–3 meters (8–10 feet), growing at a slow rate of approximately 15–30 cm (6–12 inches) per year.
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' is a distinguished cultivar of Japanese maple, celebrated for its distinctive foliage and compact growth. This tree is an ideal selection for gardeners who desire a low-maintenance yet visually striking specimen that provides year-round beauty and adapts well to various garden environments. Pot up acer plants and grow them on in cool frost free conditions until large enough to plant outside in their final positions. When plants are well grown, gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions before transplanting them in borders outdoors. Grow acer trees in any moist, fertile, well drained soil in sun or dappled shade, with shelter from strong winds which can scorch the finely cut leaves. Alternatively grow acers in large containers using a soil based compost such as John Innes No.3.
