The realm of trees is expansive and diverse, yet there are only a few varieties that enchant the senses quite like the Japanese maple.
The Pixie dwarf Japanese maple is a petite yet robust tree that is a marvel of nature, boasting a stunning display of color and form that makes it a standout in any landscape.
With a compact size and vibrant foliage, what’s not to love?
How big does a Pixie Dwarf Japanese maple get? The Pixie Japanese maple is a compact tree that reaches a mature height of 4 to 6 feet. Its width is usually about the same, making it a nearly perfect sphere of stunning foliage. Despite its size, this tree is a true showstopper, offering a visual impact that far exceeds its physical size.
As you read through the following, you’ll learn about the unique characteristics of the Pixie dwarf Japanese maple, including its growth rate, adaptability, and ideal growing conditions.
We’ll also provide a guide on how to care for this tree, including watering, fertilization, and pruning tips.
Key Takeaways
- This tree is a compact, upright variety that typically grows to a height and width of 5-6 feet. It has vibrant, changing foliage that ranges from bright red to purple or wine red in the spring and summer and turns to a fiery red or orange in the fall.
- The Pixie Japanese maple is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions but prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil. It can tolerate partial shade to full sun, but in hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
- Regular watering, especially in extreme heat, is important for this tree.
- Pixie is versatile in landscape settings, ideal for small gardens, courtyards, or container planting. Good companion plants include hostas, ferns, and rhododendrons, which all enjoy similar light and soil conditions.
Make sure to also read this article Dwarf Japanese Maple Varieties: 25 Compact & Elegant Trees. It has a bunch of other common and not-so-common Dwarf Japanese maples.
Pixie Dwarf Japanese Maple
The Pixie Japanese maple, a compact yet visually striking tree, is a favorite in many gardens and landscapes.
Its small size, combined with its vibrant and changing foliage, makes it a versatile and attractive addition to any outdoor space.
| Attribute | Description |
| Botanical Name | Acer palmatum ‘Pixie’ |
| Type | Dwarf, upright |
| Mature Height | 5-6 feet |
| Mature Width | 5-6 feet |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Adaptability | Adaptable to a variety of conditions |
| Light Preferences | Partial shade to full sun |
| Ideal Soil | Slightly acidic, well-drained soil |
| Watering Needs | Regular watering, especially in extreme heat |
| Spring and Summer Foliage | Bright red to purple |
| Fall Foliage | Fiery red to orange |
General Appearance
The Pixie dwarf Japanese maple is a compact, upright tree with a rounded canopy. It is similar in appearance to the popular Bloodgood variety.
Its leaves are palmate, like the hand of a small child, with five to seven pointed lobes.
The leaves are bright red in the spring, wine red in the summer, and a fiery red or orange in the fall. This vibrant color display, combined with the tree’s compact form, makes it a standout in any landscape.
Growth Rate & Mature Size
The Pixie Japanese maple grows at a slow to moderate rate, reaching a mature height and width of 5-6 feet. This makes it an ideal choice for smaller landscapes or for use as a container plant.
Foliage Color Through the Seasons
One of the most striking features of the Pixie Japanese maple is its vibrant, changing foliage. In the spring and summer, the leaves are a bright red to purple color.
As the seasons change, so does the color of the leaves, turning to a fiery red or orange in the fall. This stunning color display adds visual interest and beauty to any landscape throughout the year.
Hardiness
The Pixie Japanese maple is a hardy dwarf tree, able to withstand a variety of soil conditions. However, it prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
It can tolerate partial shade to full sun, but in hotter climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Pixie Growing Conditions
The Pixie Japanese maple is a versatile tree that can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. However, there are certain factors that can help this tree thrive and display its full beauty.
Sun Requirements
While Pixie can tolerate full sun, it prefers a location with partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorch, particularly in the summer months.
Soil Preferences
The Pixie Japanese maple prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil. However, it can adapt to a variety of soil types as long as the soil is not overly wet or poorly drained.
Protection From the Elements
Despite its hardiness, the Pixie Japanese maple can benefit from some protection from harsh weather conditions.
In particularly windy areas, a sheltered location can help prevent damage to the tree’s delicate branches and leaves.
Pixie Maintenance and Care
While the Pixie Dwarf Japanese Maple is relatively low-maintenance, there are certain care practices that can help this tree stay healthy and vibrant.
- Watering: Regular watering is important for the Pixie Japanese maple, especially in the heat of summer. However, care should be taken to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: A slow-release, balanced fertilizer (this one is perfect) can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid overfertilization, which can harm the tree.
- Pruning: Pruning is generally not necessary for the Pixie Japanese maple as it naturally maintains a compact, rounded shape. However, any dead or damaged branches should be removed to maintain the tree’s health and appearance.
- Winter Care: In colder climates, some winter protection may be beneficial. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
Pests & Diseases
Like all maple trees, the Pixie Japanese maple can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.
Common pests include aphids and scale insects, which can be controlled with regular monitoring and the use of appropriate insecticides if necessary.
Diseases such as verticillium wilt and leaf spot can occur, but maintaining the overall health of the tree and ensuring good air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Landscape Uses
The Pixie dwarf Japanese maple is a versatile tree that can be used in a variety of landscape settings. Its compact size makes it ideal for small gardens, courtyards, or container planting.
It can be used as a focal point in a garden design or planted in groups for a stunning display of color. Its vibrant foliage also makes it an excellent choice for a border or hedge.
Companion Plants
When choosing companion plants for the Pixie Japanese maple, consider plants that complement its vibrant foliage and have similar growing requirements.
Some good companions include hostas, ferns, and rhododendrons.
These plants all enjoy similar light and soil conditions, and their contrasting forms and textures can create a visually appealing landscape.
Where To Buy
Pixie Japanese Maples can be purchased from a variety of sources. Many local nurseries and garden centers carry this tree, and it can also be ordered online from reputable tree nurseries.
Here are a few of the top sellers:
Wrapping It Up
The Pixie dwarf Japanese maple is a truly remarkable tree. Its compact size, vibrant foliage, and adaptability make it perfect for nearly any landscape.
With the right growing conditions and care, this tree can provide year-round beauty and interest.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, the Pixie Japanese maple is a wonderful addition to any yard.
Check out these other popular Dwarf Japanese Maple trees: