Acer Japonicum Vitifolium, Full Moon Maple

Acer japonicum is commonly called full moon maple. It is a deciduous, spreading, small tree or large shrub. It often grows in a multi-trunked form. It is native to mountainous areas of Japan, Manchuria and Korea. It features rounded, palmate, almost fern-like, medium green leaves (to 3-6” across) which are deeply divided into 7-11 pointed, toothed and cut, ovate to lance-shaped lobes. Leaves turn yellow and red in fall.

The Full Moon Maple is highly regarded for its ornamental value, particularly its large, deeply lobed leaves that resemble grapevine leaves, hence the specific epithet "Vitifolium." The leaves typically have seven to eleven lobes and are bright green during the growing season. In autumn, they turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning display of fall colors.

This maple tree is relatively small, growing to a height of about 6 to 9 meters with a similar spread. It has a rounded or vase-shaped canopy, and its branches often spread horizontally, adding to its overall visual appeal.

The Full Moon Maple is typically grown as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and other landscapes. Its striking foliage and compact size make it well-suited for smaller gardens or as a focal point in larger landscapes. It can also be grown in containers or used as a bonsai tree.