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Japanese Maple 'Katsura': Spring Orange Splendor with Green Summer Foliage

Japanese Maple Katsura

Katsura foliage

Katsura form

Katsura bark

Overview

Japanese Maple 'Katsura' (Acer palmatum 'Katsura') is renowned for its spectacular spring display. The small, deeply lobed leaves emerge a brilliant orange-yellow, often with reddish margins, creating a glowing effect. Summer foliage turns a pleasant light green, followed by yellow and orange fall colors. A vigorous, upright grower that makes a striking small tree.

Botanical Profile

Family: Sapindaceae (sap-in-DAY-see-ee)
Genus: Acer (AY-ser)
Species: Acer palmatum (pahl-MAY-tum)
Cultivar: 'Katsura'

Cultivation Guide

Best in USDA zones 5-8. Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal spring color. Moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly. Protect from drying winds.

Garden Applications

Excellent as a specimen tree for spring impact, in a mixed border, or in a large container. Its vibrant spring foliage pairs beautifully with early bulbs and flowering shrubs.

Japanese Maples: Japanese Maple 'Bloodgood': The Classic Deep Red Landscape Standard; Japanese Maple 'Shaina': Compact Red Dwarf for Small Spaces; Japanese Maple 'Fireglow': Intense Red Upright for Small Gardens; Japanese Maple 'Atropurpureum': The Classic Red-Leaf Seedling Type; Japanese Maple 'Kiyohime': Dwarf Spreading Habit for Bonsai and Containers; Japanese Maple 'Osakazuki': Famous for the Most Intense Crimson Fall Color; Japanese Maple 'Kinran': Golden-Veined Reticulated Foliage; Japanese Maple 'Japanese Sunrise': Coral Bark with Yellow-Green Summer Foliage; Japanese Maple 'Moonfire': Reliable Red Upright with Bronze Summer Tones; Japanese Maple 'Fjellheim': Dwarf Compact from Norway

Garden Articles

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