Acer Palmatum 'Akegarasu'

Smooth Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Akegarasu’ is an elegant upright Japanese maple prized for its deep, smoky purple-red foliage and refined habit. Leaves emerge dark burgundy to almost black-red in spring, often with a subtle sheen, hold their rich color well through summer, and turn bright crimson to scarlet in fall.

The foliage is palmate with moderately divided lobes, giving the tree a strong yet graceful texture. ‘Akegarasu’ develops an upright to rounded form with layered branching, making it an excellent specimen tree with year-round presence.

It performs best in partial shade, especially in warmer climates, where foliage color remains darkest and leaf scorch is minimized. It prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8.

Mature size:



Height: 15–20 ft



Width: 12–18 ft



Ideal for specimen planting, woodland edges, lawns, and Asian-inspired landscapes, Acer palmatum ‘Akegarasu’ is valued for its dark foliage, elegant structure, and reliable seasonal color.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-18'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Brown

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant

Shape

Vase Shaped

Bark

Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

3'

10-year width

4'