14 Stunning Varieties of Japanese Maple Trees You Need to Know

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14 Stunning Varieties of Japanese Maple Trees You Need to Know

Japanese maple trees are the crown jewels of any garden, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, you’ll find a variety that fits your aesthetic and care level. Here are 14 stunning varieties to consider:

Table of Contents

  1. Green Japanese Maple
  2. Autumn Moon Japanese Maple
  3. Purple Ghost Japanese Maple
  4. Viridis Japanese Maple
  5. Butterfly Japanese Maple
  6. Shaina Japanese Maple
  7. Shishigashira Japanese Maple
  8. Ukigumo Japanese Maple
  9. Fireglow Japanese Maple
  10. Waterfall Japanese Maple
  11. Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple
  12. Emperor 1 Japanese Maple
  13. Osakazuki Japanese Maple
  14. Sango Kaku Japanese Maple

1. Green Japanese Maple

The classic green Japanese maple is a garden staple, known for its vibrant green leaves that turn golden in the fall.

Best For: Traditional gardens
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Classic beauty


2. Autumn Moon Japanese Maple

This variety boasts orange-yellow leaves that resemble a harvest moon.

Best For: Adding a pop of color
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Autumnal hues


3. Purple Ghost Japanese Maple

With its dark purple leaves, this variety adds a mysterious touch to any garden.

Best For: Modern landscapes
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Haunting beauty


4. Viridis Japanese Maple

Known for its weeping form and bright green leaves, Viridis is a showstopper.

Best For: Small gardens
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Weeping form


5. Butterfly Japanese Maple

This variety is named for its delicate, butterfly-like leaves.

Best For: Romantic gardens
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Delicate leaves


6. Shaina Japanese Maple

Compact and bushy, Shaina is perfect for small spaces.

Best For: Container gardening
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Compact size


7. Shishigashira Japanese Maple

Also known as the “Lion’s Head,” this variety has crinkled leaves and a unique form.

Best For: Japanese gardens
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Lion’s mane leaves


8. Ukigumo Japanese Maple

This “Floating Cloud” maple offers variegated leaves for a dreamy appearance.

Best For: Ethereal gardens
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Variegated leaves


9. Fireglow Japanese Maple

As the name suggests, this variety glows a fiery red, especially when backlit by the sun.

Best For: Dramatic landscapes
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Fiery glow


10. Waterfall Japanese Maple

This cascading variety offers a waterfall-like effect, perfect for adding movement to your garden.

Best For: Zen gardens
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Cascading form


11. Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple

Known for its deep red, almost purple leaves, this variety is a stunner.

Best For: Bold gardens
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Deep red leaves


12. Emperor 1 Japanese Maple

This variety is known for its resistance to harsh conditions, making it a durable choice.

Best For: Harsh climates
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Weather resistance


13. Osakazuki Japanese Maple

Famous for its brilliant fall colors, Osakazuki is a must-have for autumn lovers.

Best For: Fall gardens
Care Level: Easy
Unique Feature: Brilliant autumn colors


14. Sango Kaku Japanese Maple

Also known as the “Coral Bark Maple,” this variety offers stunning coral-colored bark in winter.

Best For: Year-round interest
Care Level: Moderate
Unique Feature: Coral bark


There you have it, 14 Japanese maple varieties to make your garden a living work of art. Whether you’re looking for bold colors, unique forms, or easy care, there’s a Japanese maple for you.

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