Acer Palmatum 'Flavescens'

Flavescens Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Flavescens’ is a weeping laceleaf Japanese maple with bright yellow-green foliage that provides a soft, luminous accent in the landscape. Leaves often emerge with a yellow tint in spring and transition to a fresh green as the season progresses. In autumn, foliage typically shows yellow to orange fall color, adding seasonal interest.

Size & Habit:



Mature Height: ~4–6 ft



Mature Spread: ~6–8 ft (often wider than tall)



Habit: Graceful, cascading/arching canopy with fine, lace-like leaves — classic laceleaf form.



Foliage & Color:



Spring: Bright yellow-green new leaves



Summer: Soft green hues



Fall: Yellow to orange tones



Hardiness:



USDA Zones: ~5–9 (some sources list 6a–9b)




☀️ Growing Conditions


Light: Prefers morning sun + afternoon shade, especially in hot climates to protect delicate foliage from scorch.



Soil: Moist, well-drained and fertile soil.



Water: Even moisture — water during dry spells until established.




✂️ Care Tips


Shade for leaf quality: In warmer regions, give afternoon shade to keep foliage from fading or burning.



Mulch to retain soil moisture and keep the root zone cool.



Plant in sheltered locations to reduce stress from wind and heat.



Light pruning after leaf drop or in late winter helps maintain shape.




🌿 Landscape Uses


Excellent as a feature in mixed borders or specimen planting.



Works beautifully in rock gardens, patios, containers, or as part of a Japanese-style garden.



Great in shaded or semi-shaded beds where its luminous foliage stands out.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

4-6'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Clay

Shape

Weeping

Drought tolerant

No