Spreading Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Kiyohime'

'Kiyohime' Japanese maple is a dwarf, spreading maple cultivar in the maple family (Sapindaceae).  It is known for its interesting leaf coloring. Japanese maples are native to southeast Korea and central and south Japan. Acer is Latin for sharp and palmatum means shaped like a hand, referring to the leaves.

In the early spring, its leaves have a distinctive red-purple border. The leaves are green in summer and then change to yellows and red or orange in fall. It is an unusually small maple, as it will reach only 2 to 3 feet in height, but grows twice as wide. It prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil; moderate water; and full to partial sun. It is very tolerant of hot summers.

Plant it in small spaces, a container, or in Asian gardens. It is often used in bonsai. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Aphids, scale, maple worms, leafrollers, and leafhoppers are occasional pests. Anthracnose, leaf scorch, and frost damage, especially from late frosts, can occur.  It self-seeds easily so can spread and become weedy in the landscape. See potential insect and disease problem fact sheets to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common maple diseases and insect pests.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Acer palmatum.