Acer palmatum 'Chitose Yama'

Chitose Yama Japanese Maple

Description:
A medium-sized, deciduous Japanese maple with striking seasonal color and an elegant, compact form. Leaves emerge rich red or purple-red in spring, soften to bronze-green or olive tones in summer, and finish bright scarlet to crimson in fall, providing multi-season interest.

Size & Habit:



Height: ~8–12 ft (2.5–3.5 m)



Spread: ~8–10 ft (2.5–3 m)



Form: Upright to gently mounded tree/shrub with a refined branching habit.



Foliage:



Spring: Deep red/purple-red new leaves



Summer: Bronze-green to olive-green



Fall: Brilliant scarlet-red autumn display



Flowers & Fruit:
Inconspicuous small flowers in spring; pairs of winged samaras appear later.


🌞 Growing Conditions


Zones: USDA 5–9



Light: Part shade to full sun (morning sun + afternoon shade ideal)



Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil



Water: Even moisture, particularly in establishment and hot periods




✂️ Care Tips


Sun & Color: Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to preserve leaf color.



Water: Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; mulch helps conserve moisture and cool roots.



Pruning: Minimal pruning needed — shape lightly when dormant.



Placement: Excellent as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or in containers where seasonal foliage can shine.




🌿 Landscape Uses


Small or medium gardens



Patio or entrance focal point



Mixed shrub borders and woodland settings

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12'

Width

10'

Hardiness zones

6–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Dark Pink, Yellow Green

Fall color

Purple

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Specimen

Shape

Pendulous

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

5'

10-year width

6'