Emperor 1 Japanese Maple

Botanical Name: Acer palmatum ‘Emperor 1’

Alternate Name: Emperor Maple

The Emperor 1 Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Emperor 1’) is a desirable small shade tree. It leaves out two weeks later than most maples, thereby avoiding any frost damage to new growth.

This particular Japanese Maple keeps its leaf color best in partial shade. The foliage has an enticing glow for most of the year. The leaves emerge bright red in spring, and then mature into a beautiful, deep red-purple color. They are delicate and palmate-shaped, with 5 deeply divided lobes.

Emperor 1 Japanese Maple holds its delightful color through the summer, glowing in the sunlight, and then puts on a spectacular bright scarlet fall display that will not disappoint. The flowers are inconspicuous and not noticeable compared to the leaves.

The Emperor Maple grows fairly fast, reaching 8-10 feet tall in 10 years. It is therefore a good tree to plant where a fast-growing landscape is needed. Also, be sure to plant where it will be protected from harsh winds and hot afternoon sun.

It has a graceful, upright, open crown but compact form. This makes it a good accent tree for small landscapes.

The Emperor 1 Japanese Maple doesn’t need much pruning. Make sure to prune in late winter or early spring before the sap starts running. Mulch around the base of the tree to keep soil moist and the roots cool.