Acer palmatum 'Tsuma Gaki'

Tsuma gaki Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Tsuma Gaki’ is a classic Japanese maple prized for its distinctive red-edged foliage. The name translates to “red fingernails,” referring to the sharp crimson margins that outline each leaf. Spring foliage emerges light green with bright red edges, creating a striking contrast.

Through summer, leaves remain fresh green with persistent red margins, especially when grown in partial shade. In fall, ‘Tsuma Gaki’ turns brilliant scarlet, orange, and red, delivering an exceptional and vivid autumn display. Leaves are medium-sized with traditional palmate lobes and strong edge coloration.

The habit is upright and rounded, forming a graceful small tree with excellent structure. ‘Tsuma Gaki’ performs best in partial shade, where leaf color is most intense and scorch is minimized, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 12–15 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for unique leaf coloration



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent tree in mixed borders



Patio and courtyard plantings



Fall color focal point

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

15-20'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Dark Pink, Green

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

4'

10-year width

4'