Acer Palmatum 'Emerald Lace'

Emerald Lace Japanese Maple

A graceful laceleaf (dissectum) Japanese maple with very finely cut, emerald-green foliage that gives an airy, elegant presence in the garden. Leaves emerge lime-green in spring, mature to deep emerald green in summer, and then turn bright burgundy-red in fall, a rare and beautiful fall color for green-leaf laceleaf types.

Habit:



Weeping / cascading form with a spreading crown.



Can be grown as a small specimen tree, accent plant, or in containers.



Size:



Typically around 4–6 ft tall × 6–8 ft wide in landscapes, though older specimens can expand more.



Hardiness & Zones:



USDA Zones 5–9 (sometimes listed more conservatively as 6–9 depending on source).




☀️ Growing Conditions


Light: Full sun to partial shade — some afternoon shade in hot climates helps protect delicate foliage.



Soil: Moist, well-drained, rich soil; slightly acidic to neutral.



Water: Regular watering during establishment; mulch helps conserve moisture.



Wind Protection: Sheltered sites suit laceleaf types best since fine foliage can desiccate in strong winds.




✨ Seasonal Interest


Spring: Bright lime/emerald green new foliage.



Summer: Lush emerald green canopy.



Fall: Stunning burgundy-red foliage — one of the more dramatic autumn colors among green laceleaf maples.



Winter: Elegant branch structure adds interest in the landscape when leafless.




🌱 Care Tips


Plant in a sheltered spot with protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds.



Mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture.



Light pruning only — remove dead wood or shape in late winter/early spring.



Good for foundation plantings, border accents, containers, or small gardens.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

6-8'

Width

6'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Brown

Leaf color

Fern

Fall color

Brown

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

3'

10-year width

3'