The Site Gardener

Plant Library

Explore 4,545 plants, with photos and growing details.

Back to Tools

← Back to plant results

Acer Palmatum 'Tsukomo'

Tsukomo Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Tsukomo’ is a distinctive Japanese maple valued for its deeply divided, narrow lobes and elegant, finely textured appearance. The foliage gives a refined, almost threadleaf effect while retaining the classic palmatum form.

Spring leaves emerge fresh green, maintaining a clean, graceful look through summer. In fall, ‘Tsukomo’ develops bright yellow to golden-orange tones, often accented with soft red, providing a luminous autumn display. Leaves are medium-sized with narrow lobes that enhance movement and visual interest.

The habit is upright to slightly spreading, forming a balanced small tree with an airy canopy. ‘Tsukomo’ performs best in partial shade, particularly in warmer climates, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 10–15 ft



Height: 12–18 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for fine foliage texture



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent near patios or walkways



Texture contrast in mixed borders



Light shade tree with open canopy

Plant type
Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple
Height
12-18'
Width
10-15'
Hardiness zones
5–8
Growth rate
Slow
Bloom time
Spring
Leaf color
Green, Orange Red
Fall color
Salmon
Soil
Clay, Loamy, Well Drained
Shape
Broad Upright
Drought tolerant
No