Fullmoon maple - Acer shirasawanum

Acer shirasawanum, often called Full Moon Maple, is a small Japanese maple renowned for its delicate foliage and spectacular autumn colors. Description Type: Small deciduous tree or large shrub. Mature height: Generally 3 to 8 meters (10 to 26 feet). Width: 3 to 6 meters (10 to 20 feet). Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Habit: Rounded, elegant, and often denser than many Japanese maples. Foliage Its main appeal lies in its almost circular leaves, composed of 9 to 13 shallow lobes, giving them a very soft appearance. Depending on the cultivar: Young leaves can be golden yellow, tender green, or slightly orange; In summer, they generally turn green or golden; In autumn, they take on vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, and sometimes purple. The best-known cultivar is Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum', valued for its bright golden-yellow foliage. Flowering and fruit Small reddish-purple flowers in spring. Winged fruits (samaras) red to brownish in summer. Growing conditions Exposure: Partial shade or morning sun. Soil: Rich, cool, well-drained, and slightly acidic. Humidity: Prefers regular humidity without excessive water. Protection: Appreciates a location sheltered from strong winds and scorching afternoon sun. Hardiness Generally hardy in zone 5. Many gardeners successfully grow it in southern Quebec when planted in a sheltered location. It is often considered a little more cold-tolerant than some classic Japanese maple cultivars derived from Acer palmatum. Garden use Specimen tree in a small garden. Japanese garden. Woodland border. Container planting (especially more compact cultivars).