Coral Bark Maple Fall Growth Spurt: Stress Response

Coral bark maples (Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku') often produce vigorous, large-leaved shoots in fall after summer heat stress—especially near heat-radiating stone walls. These shoots look different from the typical delicate foliage but are temporary.

What to Do

• The green leaves will persist longer than normal but eventually drop.
• Next spring, the branch will produce typical coral bark maple leaves.
• Most gardeners prune off these vigorous shoots to maintain the tree's graceful form.

Note: Some Japanese maples (like 'Butterfly') can produce permanent reversions to green leaves—those should also be pruned out.