Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium'

Japanese maple, Acer japonicum, is a maple native to Japan and southern Korea. A small deciduous tree growing to a height of around 5-10m, it’s a popular choice in small gardens. Japanese maples are known for their spectacular autumn colours, and there are many garden-worthy cultivars, which have been bred to produce an even more dramatic autumn show.

Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium' can be grown as a shrub or small tree. It's a vigorous, bushy cultivar with more deeply cut leaves than other cultivars, and it provides a dramatic splash of autumn colour. It's also smaller than the species, reaching a maximum height and spread of 4m x 4m.The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

How to grow Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium'

Grow Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium' on its own as a feature in its own right, or among other plants in a mixed herbaceous border. It does best in moist but well-drained soil, in a sheltered spot where it's protected from the worst of the elements. Mulch annually with well-rotted compost, manure or leaf mould.