Japanese maples are typically known for their exquisite foliage and captivating aesthetics, but with hundreds of diverse varieties there are many with distinct characteristics that are unique to the general understanding of Japanese maple beauty. While the fiery reds and vibrant oranges of their leaves often steal the spotlight, there exists a fascinating subset within the Japanese maple family where bark color takes center stage. These Japanese maples provide bark interest in the winter months while the tree is dormant. Many people are familiar with the red bark Japanese maples that are very popular in American landscapes, but there is also a category of Japanese maples that adorn green bark that shines bright in the winter.
Japanese maple trees are treasured for their graceful form, intricate foliage and captivating colors. While the brilliant reds and oranges of their leaves often steal the show, the understated elegance of green varieties deserves appreciation. When allowed to reach maturity green Japanese maples develop into breathtaking specimens that make an impact in any landscape.
Japanese maple trees (Acer palmatum) comprise a diverse group of over 1000 cultivars to select from. The iconic, hand-shaped leaves are deeply cut and lacy. While red and coral barked types provide winter interest, green varieties are prized for leaf shapes and textures.
Full grown green Japanese maples reach heights between 15 to 25 feet, with a similar spread Growth rates vary by cultivar, but most increase only 1-2 feet per year when young Their eventual size makes them ideal as focal points or shade trees.
Green leafed maples display their best colors in spring and fall. The fresh, bright new growth in spring is delightful. Autumn brings golden yellow or orange tones. Some add burgundy highlights before the leaves drop.
Notable Green Leaf Cultivars
A few exceptional green leafed Japanese maple varieties include:
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Aoyagi – Also called green coral bark maple, it has lime green spring leaves fading to medium green in summer. Bark is bright green, turning coral in winter. Grows 20 feet high and wide.
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Katsura – Brilliant yellow spring foliage transforms to chartreuse, then green in summer. Fall brings golden orange and red highlights. Grows up to 20 feet high and wide.
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O isami – Large bright green leaves in spring and summer with brilliant orange-red fall color. Upright form becomes rounded with age, up to 20 feet high and wide.
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Tsuma gaki – Feathery green dissected leaves turn orange-red in fall. Grows to form a cascading mound to 10 feet high by 12 feet wide.
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Viridis – The standard green laceleaf type with yellow-green spring leaves. Changes to orange and red in autumn. Grows to a 6 foot tall, weeping mound.
Growing Conditions for Success
While Japanese maples thrive in the right conditions, they need care to flourish:
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Sun: Dappled sun or afternoon shade is ideal. Morning sun is tolerated. Avoid reflected heat.
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Soil: Rich, well-draining soil amended with compost is best. Japanese maples are sensitive to poor drainage.
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Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated. Mulch helps retain moisture. Avoid drought stress.
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Fertilizer: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring before leaves emerge. Avoid high nitrogen products.
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Pruning: Selective pruning when young trains an attractive shape. Mature trees may need occasional corrective thinning. Avoid heavy pruning.
Design Uses in the Landscape
The refined nature of green full grown Japanese maples makes them very versatile:
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As a focal point specimen planted alone or in a small grove.
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For seasonal color near entries or patio areas.
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To provide dappled shade over seating areas or woodland gardens.
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As an accent or specimen near water features or Asian style gardens.
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To add fine texture among foundation plantings or in mixed borders.
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Planted in containers on decks, patios, or entryways.
While flashy colored varieties get more attention, green leaf Japanese maples have sophisticated elegance. Their subtle hues, graceful form, and fine textures enable them to complement any setting. With proper care, they develop into enviable landscape specimens that draw the eye. Make room for a green Japanese maple to contribute its understated elegance to your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Full Grown Japanese Maple Trees
Here are answers to some common questions about green full grown Japanese maple trees:
How big does a green Japanese maple grow?
Green Japanese maples range in size from 2 to 30 feet tall in forms that can be weeping, rounded, dwarf, mounding, upright, or cascading. Choose the right one based on how you want to use it in your landscape.
How long does it take for a Japanese maple to fully mature?
Japanese maples can grow up to 26 feet in fifty years, depending on conditions, but most are small, slow-growing trees under 10 feet tall – ideal for smaller gardens or containers.
Can green Japanese maple varieties tolerate full sun?
Yes, green varieties and cultivars generally tolerate full sun very well, but may get sunburned foliage in late summer heat. Morning sun is better than hot afternoon sun.
What are the best green leaf Japanese maple varieties?
Some top choices include Viridis, Aoyagi, Katsura, O isami, and Green Sleeves for grace, spring and fall color, interesting bark, and adaptability. Talk to reputable nurseries to select the right one for your specific needs.
When is the best time to plant a Japanese maple tree?
Early spring before bud break or fall after leaves drop are ideal times to plant Japanese maples. This avoids excessive heat and water stress on newly planted trees.
Green full grown Japanese maple trees have captivated gardeners for centuries with their stunning elegance and beauty. With proper selection and care, you can enjoy their splendor for years to come. Consult with knowledgeable growers to pick the perfect green Japanese maple tree for your landscape vision.
Seasonal Changes of Green Bark Japanese Maples
In spring, green bark Japanese maple varieties typically come to life with fresh green leaves, contributing to the overall verdant appearance of the tree. The green leaves on top of the green bark really makes for a vibrant display of light green color. This is another great reason to plant these Japanese maples in darker shadier areas in the yard. These green bark Japanese maple varieties can be a great way to brighten up a darker area of the yard and really add some pop and color to otherwise boring locations.
Acer palmatum ‘Kawahara no midori’
Acer palmatum Kawahara no midori is a fast growing, upright Japanese maple with bright green leaves and bright green bark. Many Japanese maples have a greenish bark when young, but it’s a much more natural looking green. Kawahara no midori has bright green bark that actually stands out in a crowd of other plants. The leaves of Kawahara no midori are green in the spring and summer and turn bright yellow in the fall.