Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ is widely regarded as one of the best Japanese Maples for autumn colour. It produces mid-green foliage through spring and summer before transforming into an intense, glowing scarlet-red in autumn. The leaves are larger and more rounded than many dissected forms, giving it a bold yet elegant presence in the landscape.
Light requirement: Part shade to full sun (protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates)
Water requirement: Moderate
Watering frequency: Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained
Soil: Slightly acidic, humus-rich, free-draining soil
Skill level: Moderate
Growth rate: Moderate
Suitable for container gardens: Yes while young; best long-term planted in ground
Mature Height: 4–6 m
Mature Width: 4–6 m
Seasonality: Deciduous
Drought Tolerant: Low to moderate once established
Frost Tolerant: Yes (hardy in cool climates; protect fresh spring growth from late frost)
Wind Tolerant: Low to moderate; prefers sheltered positions
Leaf colour: Mid-green (brilliant scarlet-red in autumn)
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: 7–12 cm across, 7-lobed
Flower Colour: Reddish-purple (small and inconspicuous)
Flower Shape: Small clusters
Flower Fragrance: None
Flower Season: Spring
Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ is widely regarded as one of the best Japanese Maples for autumn colour. It produces mid-green foliage through spring and summer before transforming into an intense, glowing scarlet-red in autumn. The leaves are larger and more rounded than many dissected forms, giving it a bold yet elegant presence in the landscape.
Light requirement: Part shade to full sun (protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates)
Water requirement: Moderate
Watering frequency: Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained
Soil: Slightly acidic, humus-rich, free-draining soil
Skill level: Moderate
Growth rate: Moderate
Suitable for container gardens: Yes while young; best long-term planted in ground
Mature Height: 4–6 m
Mature Width: 4–6 m
Seasonality: Deciduous
Drought Tolerant: Low to moderate once established
Frost Tolerant: Yes (hardy in cool climates; protect fresh spring growth from late frost)
Wind Tolerant: Low to moderate; prefers sheltered positions
Leaf colour: Mid-green (brilliant scarlet-red in autumn)
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: 7–12 cm across, 7-lobed
Flower Colour: Reddish-purple (small and inconspicuous)
Flower Shape: Small clusters
Flower Fragrance: None
Flower Season: Spring
