Takao Japanese Maple

'Takao' is one of the oldest Japanese maple cultivars in existence, with documented history dating back to 1690 in Japan. An upright, large-growing green palmatum with exceptional adaptability and glorious golden-yellow fall colour, this is a garden tree that has stood the test of time for over three centuries — and continues to earn its place in every landscape it graces.

Growth Form & Habit

'Takao' develops into a substantial, well-formed upright tree, including:

• An upright, rounded canopy reaching 15–20 feet tall and wide at maturity
• Large, broad green palmatum leaves that create a full and lush summer canopy
• Strong branch structure with classic Japanese maple form and presence

With its substantial size and classic upright form, 'Takao' makes an outstanding specimen, shade tree, or anchor planting in larger garden spaces.

Foliage & Seasonal Characteristics

'Takao' delivers classic four-season ornamental interest, including:

• Fresh green palmatum foliage through spring and summer — a clean, classic garden presence
• Large, broad leaves that create exceptional canopy density and a lush, summery feel
• Glorious golden-yellow autumn colour — warm, luminous, and unmistakable in the fall garden
• Elegant branch structure with refined winter presence

'Takao' also attracts beneficial insects and birds — adding ecological value alongside its outstanding ornamental character.

Ideal for Large Gardens & Specimen Planting

'Takao' is best suited to larger garden spaces where its full, rounded canopy and bold autumn colour can be appreciated at scale. It makes a magnificent specimen tree, an elegant focal point, or a stately shade-providing anchor in collector landscapes and traditional garden designs. Its adaptability across sun and shade conditions also makes it a flexible choice for a wide range of planting positions.

Why Choose Takao?

• Over 330 years of history: Documented to 1690 in Japan — one of the oldest and most enduring Japanese maple cultivars in existence
• Glorious golden-yellow fall colour: A warm, luminous autumn display that is among the finest of any green-leaved Japanese maple
• Exceptional adaptability: Performs from full sun to mostly shade, tolerates humidity, and thrives in average garden conditions
• Large and impressive: Reaches 15–20 feet tall and wide — a bold, substantial specimen for larger landscapes
• Ecologically valuable: Attracts beneficial insects and birds throughout the season

Typical Takao growth form

Plant Sizes

We offer Takao Japanese maples in several size categories. Measurements are approximate and provided as a general guideline.

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.