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The Katsura Japanese maple is a stunning addition to any outdoor space, bringing a unique beauty to the surroundings. With its ever-changing leaves, this living work of art adds vibrant colors and elegance to your garden.
How big does a Katsura Japanese maple get? The Katsura Japanese maple is a moderately sized tree with a slow to medium growth rate. On average, it can reach a mature height of 10-15 feet and a width of about 15 feet. However, the size can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions.
In the following, you’ll learn the specifics of the Katsura Japanese maple, including its general appearance, growth rate, and mature size as well as the changes in foliage color through the seasons.
We’ll also discuss the ideal growing conditions, maintenance and care requirements, potential pests and diseases, and landscape uses.
Key Takeaways
- This tree is known for its vibrant foliage that changes with the seasons, and it typically reaches a mature height of 10-15 feet.
- The Katsura Japanese maple is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate a fair amount of sunlight. However, it appreciates some protection from harsh elements like strong winds and extreme heat.
- Regular watering, fertilization, and winter care are crucial for the Katsura Japanese maple. Pruning is generally not necessary except for removing dead or diseased branches.
- This tree is versatile in the landscape and can be paired with plants that prefer similar growing conditions, such as rhododendrons, azaleas, ferns, and hostas.
Explore other incredible varieties of Japanese maples in my article 30 Gorgeous Japanese Maple Varieties.
Katsura Japanese Maple
The Katsura Japanese maple, with its unique characteristics and vibrant colors, is a showpiece in any landscape.
| Feature | Description |
| Botanical Name | Acer palmatum ‘Katsura’ |
| Type | Upright |
| Mature Height | 10-15 feet |
| Mature Width | 15 feet |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Adaptability | Adaptable to various conditions |
| Light Preferences | Full sun to partial shade |
| Ideal Soil | Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic |
| Watering Needs | Regular watering, more frequent in extreme heat |
| Spring and Summer Foliage | Bright green edged in orange leaves in spring, turn green in summer |
| Fall Foliage | Bright yellow to orange |
General Appearance
The Katsura Japanese maple is an upright tree with a rounded crown. Its leaves are small and finely cut, giving the tree a delicate, lacy appearance.
The leaf size and shape contribute to the tree’s overall aesthetic, making it stand out in any landscape.
Growth Rate & Mature Size
The Katsura Japanese maple is a moderately growing tree. It typically reaches a mature height of 10-15 feet and a similar spread of about 15 feet, creating a balanced, rounded silhouette.
The growth rate and ultimate size can be influenced by the growing conditions, including soil type, sunlight, and watering practices.
Foliage Color Through the Seasons
One of the most striking features of the Katsura Japanese maple is its changing foliage color throughout the seasons. In the spring, the leaves emerge green ringed with coral red.
As the season progresses, these colors mellow to a light green for the summer months.
When autumn arrives, the tree puts on another show, with leaves turning brilliant yellow and orange, adding a burst of color to the landscape.
Hardiness
The Katsura Japanese maple is a hardy tree, able to withstand temperatures down to USDA Hardiness Zone 5.
It’s also adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, although it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Despite its hardiness, the Katsura Japanese Maple benefits from protection against harsh winds and extreme heat, which can cause leaf scorch.
Katsura Japanese Maple Growing Conditions
The Katsura Japanese maple is a versatile tree that can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. However, there are certain conditions that it prefers.
Sun Requirements
The Katsura Japanese maple prefers full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate a fair amount of sunlight, it’s important to note that in hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch.
Soil Preferences
When it comes to soil, the Katsura Japanese maple prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It can adapt to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil, as long as they are quick to drain.
The tree also prefers soil rich in organic matter, which helps retain moisture and provides necessary nutrients.
Protection From the Elements
While the Katsura Japanese maple is a hardy tree, it does appreciate some protection from harsh elements. In particular, strong winds and extreme heat can cause damage to the leaves.
Therefore, choosing a planting location that offers some protection, such as near a building or other trees, can help keep your Katsura Japanese maple healthy.
Katsura Japanese Maple Maintenance and Care
Taking care of a Katsura Japanese maple involves regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and winter care. With the right maintenance, your tree can thrive and continue to add beauty to your landscape for many years.
Watering
Regular watering is crucial for the Katsura Japanese maple, especially during the first few years after planting. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not saturated.
During periods of extreme heat or drought, additional watering may be necessary.
Fertilization
A slow-release, balanced fertilizer, like this one, can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid overfertilization, which can harm the tree.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not necessary for the Katsura Japanese maple, as it naturally grows into a pleasing shape.
However, any dead or diseased branches should be removed to maintain the tree’s health and appearance.
Winter Care
In colder climates, it may be beneficial to provide some winter protection for the Katsura Japanese maple.
This could include mulching around the base of the tree to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and wrapping the tree in a burlap wrap to protect it from harsh winter winds.
Pests & Diseases
Like all trees, the Katsura Japanese maple can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, scale, and mites.
These pests can be controlled with regular monitoring and the use of appropriate insecticides or natural predators.
As for diseases, Japanese maples can sometimes be affected by fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt and anthracnose.
These can be prevented by ensuring the tree is not waterlogged and has good air circulation.
If you notice any unusual signs in your tree, such as wilting leaves or spots, it’s best to consult with a local arborist or extension service.
Landscape Uses
The Katsura Japanese maple is a versatile tree that can be used in various ways in the landscape. It’s vibrant colors and elegant shape make it a great focal point in a garden.
It can also be used in a border, as a specimen tree, or even in a large container. Its relatively small size makes it suitable for urban gardens as well.
Companion Plants
When choosing companion plants for the Katsura Japanese maple, consider plants that prefer similar growing conditions.
Rhododendrons and azaleas, for example, also prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil and can provide beautiful spring blooms that complement the maple’s foliage.
Ferns and hostas can provide contrasting textures and are well suited to the dappled shade provided by the maple.
Where To Buy
Katsura Japanese maples can be purchased at local nurseries or garden centers. They are also available online from various retailers. Here are a few options:
Final Thoughts
The Katsura Japanese maple is a beautiful and versatile tree that can add color and elegance to any landscape. With the right care and conditions, it can thrive and provide beauty for many years.
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