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Proudly Grown In Canada
Plants are propagated in Canada at our very own nursery here on Vancouver Island, BC.
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Cultivar
'Emmett's Pumpkin'
A rare and exceptional full moon Japanese maple prized for its vibrant pumpkin-orange spring color. 'Emmett's Pumpkin' features the distinctive rounded, fan-shaped leaves of Acer japonicum with brilliant orange foliage that emerges in spring and holds color longer than typical cultivars. The large leaves create bold architectural presence distinctly different from standard Japanese maples. Summer foliage matures to chartreuse-green, then transforms to spectacular golden-yellow with orange and red highlights in fall. Compact growth reaches 12-15 feet, ideal for smaller to medium gardens. Requires partial shade and consistent moisture to prevent leaf scorch. Perfect as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or woodland gardens where vibrant color and unique foliage can be showcased. An essential choice for collectors seeking rare full moon maples with exceptional spring and fall color.
Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are among the most versatile and admired ornamental trees, prized for their elegant form, refined foliage, and year-round visual interest. Suitable for both garden planting and bonsai cultivation, these trees adapt beautifully to a wide range of landscapes and growing styles.
Growth Forms & Habits
Japanese maples are available in a wide variety of natural forms, including:
- Upright and spreading forms ideal for specimen planting
- Weeping and cascading varieties perfect for containers, slopes, and bonsai
- Compact and dwarf cultivars well-suited to small gardens, patios, and detailed bonsai work
Their graceful branching structure provides beauty even in winter once leaves have fallen.
Foliage & Bark Characteristics
Cultivars display a remarkable range of ornamental traits, including:
- Deep red, burgundy, and purple foliage, often changing through the seasons
- Fresh green or chartreuse leaves with brilliant fall color
- Variegated patterns with cream, pink, or white accents
- Coral bark selections with striking winter stem color
- Rough or fissured bark types prized for texture and age character
Leaf shapes range from finely dissected laceleaf forms to broader, classic palmate leaves.
Ideal for Bonsai & Garden Use
Japanese maples are highly valued for bonsai due to their fine branching, ability to reduce leaf size, and responsiveness to pruning and training. At the same time, they perform exceptionally well as garden trees—whether planted in the ground, grown in containers, or used as focal points in Japanese-inspired landscapes.
Why Choose Japanese Maples?
- Four-season interest: Spring foliage, summer canopy, brilliant fall color, and elegant winter structure
- Versatile sizing: Most varieties mature between 10–15 feet, perfect for small gardens and urban spaces
- Low maintenance: Once established, Japanese maples are hardy and require minimal care
- Container-friendly: Ideal for patios, balconies, or featured garden spots
- Excellent for bonsai: Fine branching, leaf reduction, and responsive to training
Typical Japanese Maple growth form
Plant Sizes
We offer Japanese maples in several size categories. Measurements are approximate and provided as a general guideline.
| Size Category | Height | Trunk Diameter | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4" Liners | 6–12 inches | ¼–½ inch | Young plants ideal for training, bonsai, or growing on |
| Standard 1-Gallon | 6–24 inches | ¾–1½ inches | Well-established plants suitable for landscape or container growing |
| 1-Gallon Extra Large (XL) | 12–48 inches | ¾–2 inches | Grown for a longer period, resulting in better branching, thicker trunks, and a more mature appearance |
Please note: Plant size and form will vary depending on the cultivar purchased. Dwarf varieties will naturally be smaller and more compact than standard varieties, even within the same pot size.
Grown in Canada, for Canada. All our Japanese maples are cultivated and shipped from our Canadian nursery with care, ensuring they arrive healthy and ready to thrive in your climate.
Plant Details
Botanical Name
Acer japonicum 'Emmett's Pumpkin'
Hardiness Zones
5-7
Mature Height
12-15 ft. tall
Mature Width
10-12 ft. wide
Sun Needs
Partial shade to filtered sun (morning sun preferred, protect from hot afternoon sun)
Water Needs
Moderate to high - consistent moisture essential to prevent leaf scorch
Growth Rate
Slow to moderate (6-10 inches per year)
Defining Characteristic
Vibrant orange spring foliage with exceptional color retention and brilliant fall display
Spectacular Orange Spring Color
'Emmett's Pumpkin' emerges in spring with vibrant pumpkin-orange foliage that creates an immediate focal point. The brilliant color is more intense and longer-lasting than typical full moon maples, providing exceptional spring impact that sets this cultivar apart.
Unique Full Moon Foliage
Features the distinctive rounded, fan-shaped leaves characteristic of Acer japonicum (full moon maple). The larger, more circular leaves create a bold, tropical appearance that's distinctly different from typical Japanese maples, adding unique architectural interest.
Brilliant Fall Transformation
Transforms to spectacular golden-yellow with orange and red highlights in autumn. The large, rounded leaves create a luminous display that glows in fall sunlight, providing one of the most stunning seasonal transformations of any maple.
Sun Needs
Partial shade to filtered sun (morning sun preferred, protect from hot afternoon sun)
Soil
Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Excellent drainage and consistent moisture are critical for maintaining vibrant color. Amend heavy clay with organic matter to improve drainage. Avoid compacted or waterlogged soils which can lead to root stress.
Temperature
Hardy in zones 5-7. Protect from harsh winter winds and late spring frosts which can damage emerging orange foliage. Afternoon shade is essential in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch and preserve the vibrant color throughout the season.
Water and Mulching
Water deeply and consistently, especially in the first 2–3 years. Full moon maples require regular moisture to maintain vibrant foliage and prevent leaf scorch. Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch around the base (keep off the trunk) to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect the root system.
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