Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium' 60cm Pot 210cm Height Outdoor Tree

Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ is one of the most spectacular of the full moon maples, prized for its large, grapevine-like leaves and outstanding autumn colours. The name ‘Vitifolium’ means “vine-leaved”, referring to the broad, lobed foliage that resembles that of a grapevine (Vitis).

This elegant Japanese maple is valued for its graceful shape and exceptional seasonal display, making it a choice specimen tree in gardens.

🌿 Key Features:

• Foliage: Remarkably large leaves (up to 15 cm across) are broadly lobed and slightly serrated, giving them a bold texture. They emerge soft green in spring, deepen to fresh green through summer, and then transform into a spectacular blend of scarlet, orange and golden yellow in autumn, often with multiple colours on a single leaf.

• Flowers: In spring, before or with the emerging leaves, small, hanging clusters of reddish-purple flowers appear, adding subtle charm.

• Habit: Develops into a broad, rounded small tree or large shrub, typically growing to 3–5 metres high with a similar spread, creating an open, layered canopy.

• Bark: Smooth grey bark provides gentle winter structure.

Because of its large, dramatic leaves and brilliant autumn display, ‘Vitifolium’ is an exceptional choice for planting as a specimen tree where it can be fully admired.

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🌱 Detailed Care Guide for Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’

📍 Position & Light

• Prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight, especially in areas with hot summers.

• Some morning sun is ideal to enhance autumn colour, but protect from strong afternoon sun to avoid leaf scorch.

🌬️ Shelter

• Plant in a sheltered position, out of strong winds which can tear the large leaves and cause browning.

💧 Watering

• Likes soil to be consistently moist but well-drained.

• Water deeply in dry periods, particularly when young or if grown in containers.

• Mulch each spring with compost or fine bark to conserve moisture and keep shallow roots cool.

🪴 Soil

• Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soil.

• Avoid very alkaline or heavy clay soils. If necessary, plant in raised beds or containers using ericaceous compost mixed with grit for drainage.

🍽️ Feeding

• Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a specialist acer feed.

• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote lush growth prone to wind and frost damage.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Requires minimal pruning.

• Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while dormant.

• Avoid hard pruning, which disrupts its graceful natural shape.

🪲 Pests & Problems

• Generally very healthy and trouble-free.

• May occasionally suffer aphids on new shoots.

• Leaf scorch (browned edges) usually results from drought, wind or intense sun, rather than disease.

🚰 Container Growing

• Suitable for large pots, making it ideal for patios or smaller gardens.

• Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure good drainage by raising pots on feet, and water consistently.

• In harsh winters, protect roots by wrapping the pot or moving to a sheltered location.