Tamukeyama Japanese Maple

Over 300 years of cultivation behind it — the Tamukeyama is a classic laceleaf Japanese maple with deep red foliage that holds strong from spring through fall.

Tamukeyama (Acer palmatum dissectum 'Tamukeyama') is one of the oldest and most trusted laceleaf Japanese maples in cultivation. Its finely cut, feathery leaves emerge deep red-purple in spring and hold that rich tone through the heat of summer — a quality that separates it from lesser varieties that fade to green by July. The graceful, cascading branches form a broad, dome-like shape that grows wider than tall, creating a layered, sculptural presence that anchors garden beds and softens hard edges with equal elegance. In fall the foliage turns brilliant scarlet before dropping to reveal the beautiful branching structure beneath.

What I love about it

Tamukeyama is the Japanese maple you plant once and enjoy for a lifetime. The color is reliable — deep red-purple that holds through summer heat better than most laceleaf varieties. The cascading form is naturally beautiful and becomes more dramatic and sculptural with every passing year. It's cold-hardy for a dissectum, adapts to a range of soil types, and thrives in full sun to part shade. Plant it as a standalone specimen, pair it with evergreens and stone, or grow it in a large container on a patio or entryway. It's garden architecture that only gets better with age.

Plant Care Tips

• ☀️ Light: Full sun to part shade — afternoon shade appreciated in hot climates
• 💧 Water: Water deeply until established; moderate water needs once mature
• 🌡️ Temperature: Hardy to -20°F (Zone 5); cold-hardy for a laceleaf maple
• 🪴 Difficulty: Easy — low-maintenance once established
• 🐾 Pet Safety: Non-toxic to cats and dogs
• ✂️ Pruning: Minimal needed; light shaping in late winter if desired

Plant Specs

• Mature Size: 8–10 ft tall, 10–12 ft wide (wider than tall)
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Foliage: Deep red-purple laceleaf; holds color through summer; scarlet fall color
• Form: Broad, cascading dome
• Growing Zone: 5–8

Bloom bold. Be cheeky.