Acer Palmatum Summer Gold Japanese Maple

Acer Palmatum Summer Gold is a striking yellow-leaved deciduous Japanese Acer tree. It works very well as an accent plant placed in a prominent position. 

Japanese Maples are native to Japan but are now grown across the world. There are many cultivars of ornamental Japanese Maple and Summer Gold is one of the brightest yellows on the market. It was bred by the Gilardelli Nursery in Italy who have also bred the stunning orange-leaved cultivar Orange Dream.

This is a deciduous small ornamental tree. Foliage emerges in late spring as tightly curled rolls that open into orangey-yellow leaves with 5-7 divided lobes. Young leaves mature to gold-yellow and then yellow-green by late summer. By autumn, Summer Gold turns vivid shades of bright golden yellow before falling with the frost.

This is an excellent choice of tree for small gardens or plant containers. Japanese Maple Summer Gold is one of the brightest smaller maples you can buy in a warm yellow and it never fails to disappoint. 

Height and Spread of Acer Palmatum Summer Gold
This is a small tree with a rounded crown. It will reach a height and spread of 2.5 metres.

How Hardy Is Acer Palmatum Summer Gold
Acer Summer Gold is hardy down to freezing temperatures in well-drained soils. Pests are rarely a bother and it can tolerate some sun on its foliage.

How To Use Acer Palmatum Summer Gold
This small maple’s bright foliage stands out in a mixed border, so it makes an excellent accent plant in country-style or modern gardens. It particularly suits a Japanese theme near water and creates an eye-catching display from spring to autumn when mixed with other foliage plants.
Due to its small size, you can grow Japanese Maple Summer Gold in a large well-watered and fed container to light up a patio or balcony with sunshine leaves through the summer.

How To Care for Acer Palmatum Summer Gold
This acer prefers a partially sunny spot in a sheltered location that’s free from harsh, drying winds that will scorch its foliage. An east or west-facing spot is best.
It will grow in well-drained clay, loam, and sand of any pH and needs little attention once established. Pruning may ruin its shape, but you can wait until the dormant winter months to remove damaged or crossed branches.
Mulch well in spring and water well until established plus during very dry spells. Container-grown specimens will need regular water and a weekly liquid feed.