Highlights

Elegant Foliage: Finely dissected, emerald green leaves with subtle red highlights add texture and colour to your garden.
Seasonal Interest: Enjoy vibrant green foliage in spring and summer, turning rich shades in autumn before leaf fall.
Compact Growth: Typically reaches 1.5–2m in height and spread over 10 years – ideal for borders, patios, or containers.
Hardy & Reliable: Deciduous and robust, suitable for UK gardens (RHS hardiness H6).
Easy Care: Thrives in partial shade with moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil; minimal pruning required.
Versatile Use: Perfect as a focal point in woodland gardens, mixed borders, or large pots.

We're offering you a Acer Palmatum Emerald Lace Plants for £7.99, saving you up to 33% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £11.99 (correct as of 07.05.2026).

Acer palmatum 'Emerald Lace' – Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Emerald Lace' is a captivating Japanese Maple variety prized for its deeply cut, lace-like foliage. This small deciduous tree adds a touch of refinement to any garden setting with its intricate leaves that emerge bright emerald green in spring and mature to deeper tones with subtle red tinges. In autumn, expect a fiery display as the foliage transforms into shades of gold and crimson before falling.

Botanical Family: Sapindaceae (Maple family)
Mature Size: Grows up to 1.5–2m tall and wide over 10 years
Foliage: Finely dissected, palmate leaves for a delicate, airy appearance
Seasonal Colour: Spring/summer green; autumn golds and reds

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Fully hardy in most UK regions (RHS H6); withstands winter cold
Sun/Shade: Prefers partial shade but tolerates full sun if soil remains moist
Soil Preference: Moist but well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7)
Shelter: Protect from strong winds to prevent leaf scorch

Planting & Care Tips

Planting Time: Best planted from autumn to early spring while dormant
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially in dry spells
Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or crossing branches in late autumn or winter
Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring if needed
Pots & Borders: Suitable for large containers or as a specimen tree in mixed borders and woodland settings

Design Ideas & Companions

Create contrast by pairing with ferns, hostas, azaleas, or rhododendrons.
Add structure to Japanese-inspired gardens or shaded patios.
Makes an excellent focal point near water features or garden paths.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant?
The ideal time is between autumn and early spring when the tree is dormant.
How fast does it grow?
'Emerald Lace' grows slowly, reaching full size (1.5–2m) over approximately 10 years.
What type of soil does it prefer?
This maple thrives in moist, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7).