katsura japanese maple

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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Welcome to your guide to the katsura japanese maple, a show-stopping small tree that brings a blend of artistry and elegance to New Zealand gardens. Officially known as Acer palmatum 'Katsura', this Japanese maple is renowned for its vibrant spring foliage, compact habit, and year-round interest. If you're seeking a statement tree for a courtyard, patio, or feature spot, the katsura japanese maple delivers in both beauty and adaptability.

Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant gold and orange in autumn. This elegant deciduous tree performs exceptionally well in New Zealand gardens and is ideal for feature planting in small to medium landscapes. Its seasonal colour changes and refined form make Acer 'Katsura' a standout ornamental tree.

Buy Acer 'Katsura'

From $299.95

An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.

Suited to regions:
All regions
Plant type:
Trees
Height:
3.00 m
Spread:
2.00 m
Flowering time:
Summer
Tolerances:
Hardy
Garden uses:
Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Specimen
Garden styles:
Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

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About Acer 'Katsura'

The katsura japanese maple is cherished by New Zealand gardeners for its distinctive early spring leaves. Emerging in shades of luminous orange and yellow, the foliage matures gradually to rich green in summer, finishing with a sunset display of gold and orange in autumn. This tree typically reaches around 3 to 4 metres in height, making it an ideal choice for small urban gardens or container planting. Its rounded, elegant form and fine branches provide graceful structure through every season.

Ideal Conditions and Care

Like most Japanese maples, Acer 'Katsura' thrives in a sheltered spot with dappled light or morning sun and protection from harsh winds. Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, and mulch around the base to conserve moisture. This variety is both hardy and relatively low-maintenance. A yearly prune after leaf-fall helps keep its shape tidy and encourages healthy new growth.

Creative Uses in Your Garden

The katsura japanese maple is perfect as a specimen tree, where its unfolding colours can be fully appreciated. Its compact size suits courtyards, decks, or entryways—anywhere you want a vivid burst of seasonal colour. For a layered look, try underplanting with shade-tolerant perennials or groundcovers. Japanese maples also partner beautifully with other ornamental trees. Consider pairing your katsura japanese maple with Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) for stunning autumn contrasts, or add structure nearby with Michelia yunnanensis or Magnolia rostrata (Beaked Magnolia).

Explore More Maples and Companion Trees

If you love the katsura japanese maple, you might also be interested in other extraordinary maples and small trees. The elegant Acer 'Armstrong' brings vertical interest, while Acer saccharinum offers classic maple charm for larger landscapes. For brilliant gold foliage, Acer negundo 'Kelly's Gold' is a standout. Complement your maple with decorative companions such as Schotia brachypetala (Weeping Boer-Bean) or the beautiful Cercis canadensis Silver Lining (Red Bud Tree).

Why Choose Katsura Japanese Maple

Few trees can match the katsura japanese maple for four-season interest, ease of growth, and garden versatility. Whether you’re designing a new landscape or refreshing a favourite spot, this exceptional acer brings texture, colour, and a touch of drama to any space. Explore our range and find the perfect maple or companion tree to elevate your garden's beauty year-round.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.