Acer Palmatum 'Matsuyoi'

Smooth Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Matsuyoi’ is an elegant Japanese maple valued for its finely divided, lace-like foliage and graceful, refined habit. New leaves emerge soft green in spring, creating a light, airy appearance. Through summer, foliage remains fresh green, adding a calm, cooling presence to the landscape.

In fall, ‘Matsuyoi’ develops golden yellow to orange tones, often with subtle red highlights, providing a gentle but attractive autumn display. The habit is upright to slightly spreading, with delicate branching that gives the tree a natural, flowing form.

It grows best in partial shade, especially in warmer regions, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil. ‘Matsuyoi’ is appreciated more for its texture and form than for bold summer color.

Size



Width: 8–12 ft



Height: 10–15 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree highlighting fine foliage texture



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent near patios, walkways, or water features



Light shade tree with an open canopy



Contrast plant with bold or coarse-textured shrubs

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-15'

Width

10-12'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Loamy

Shape

Broad Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No