Japanese Vine Maple

The Vine Maple is an intriguing small native tree that grows 15 to 20 feet tall. It is a close relative of the Japanese maple, but much easier to grow, and much more adaptable to both deep shade and drought. It has attractive, lobed leaves like a hand, which do not dry out in summer, like the leaves of some Japanese maples often do. In fall this tree puts on a brilliant show of orange and red foliage, lightening up the darkest corner. It grows into a small, multi-stemmed tree, 15 or perhaps 20 feet tall. It has the ability to thrive even in the deep shade of evergreen trees, developing a beautiful, open, almost pendulous habit. It full sun it will become more upright, with the strongest fall colors.

• Easy to grow native tree
• Vibrant fall colors of orange and red
• Less than 20 feet tall – ideal for a smaller garden
• Grows well even in deep year-round shade
• Easier to grow than Japanese maples, but just as beautiful

Plant the Vine Maple in almost any kind of soil, and it will thrive. This tree grows in well-drained soil, but also in wetter soils. It will grow in full sun, partial shade of full-shade, even below evergreen trees. It needs no special care, and once established it is drought resistant too. It has no particular problems, and if you love the look of Japanese maple, but don’t have the conditions suitable for their growth, then this tree is a great alternative, and a terrific way to fill shady corners of your garden beneath large trees.