They typically grow fastest when they are young and slow down as they reach maturity. Most Japanese maples grow at a slow to moderate rate of 1 to 2 feet per year. Foliage color:įamous for their phenomenal fall colors, Japanese maples also present purples, reds, yellows, oranges, and greens as well as variegation throughout the growing season. For best color, most maples need a location with part day's sun or at least high light.
Too little light, and some of the more colorful varieties will take on a greenish tone - still attractive, but not the brilliant fall color of reds and purples as would be expected.
Too much light can damage delicate leaves. Providing the right amount of light can be a balancing act. Varieties from 8 to 30 feet tall and wide. They typically leaf out early in the season and a late cold snap can cause serious damage even to mature specimens.
Heat is a consideration, especially in the south, not necessarily for the health of the maple but for its effect on leaf color, causing many purple or red-leaved varieties to “go green” in the summer.