Overview & Description

Korean Maple (Acer pseudosieboldianum) is a hardy, small deciduous tree prized as the northern gardener’s alternative to the Japanese maple. Its rounded form features palmate leaves with 9 to 11 doubly serrated lobes that emerge reddish in spring, mature to dark green, then erupt in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn. Purple flowers bloom in spring, followed by winged samaras. The species exhibits marcescence, holding some dried leaves through winter for added interest.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits an upright, rounded, spreading growth habit. It is a slow to moderate-growing tree, typically reaching a mature size of about 15 – 25 feet in height with a similar spread. It grows approximately 12 – 18 inches  per year.

Additional Notes

It blooms in spring (April-May) with purple flowers. Hardy to Zone 4, it withstands temperatures as low as -42°C (-43°F). It prefers moist, organically rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in full sun to part shade. Protect from strong winds and avoid hot, dry sites.