Japanese Maple 'Katsura' (Acer palmatum) - with fiery foliage - 26 cm pot - Height 90 cm

Yes, the Katsura Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Katsura') is ideally suited for small gardens and even patios. Its slow growth means it will not take over the space: expect a growth rate of 10 to 20 cm per year in favorable conditions. It reaches a height of 2 to 3 meters over several decades, remaining perfectly manageable. Its airy silhouette and naturally balanced habit allow it to fit into small arrangements without ever smothering neighboring plants.

T'he Katsura Japanese maple thrives in partial shade or in light, dappled shade, for example at the foot of a'large tree or facing a wall exposed to the'east. The full afternoon sun, especially in Mediterranean regions or during heatwaves, risks browning and curling the delicate leaves. A location that receives morning sun and benefits from'protective shade from 1 p.m. onwards is the ideal setting. It tolerates more sustained sunlight in the North and'West of France, where the light is softer and the'air less dry.

Yes, the Katsura Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Katsura') is considered fully hardy in the majority of French regions, withstanding winter temperatures down to -15°C. It can therefore remain in the ground all year round without any special protection in almost all climate zones in mainland France. Its main vulnerability comes from late spring frosts, which can affect the young copper-colored shoots at bud break: a location sheltered from cold drafts from the north or east minimizes this risk.

T'he Katsura Japanese maple is ideally planted in autumn, between September and November, to take advantage of the soil's warmth and allow for good root establishment before 'winter. Spring planting (March-April) is also possible, but requires more regular watering during the first summer season. Prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball and enrich the removed soil with mature compost and, if the soil is alkaline, with ericaceous soil to 'slightly acidify it.

The Japanese Maple Katsura (Acer palmatum 'Katsura') prefers cool, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5 pH. Soils that are too alkaline (high pH) cause characteristic leaf chlorosis: the leaves turn yellow between the veins, a sign of a deficiency in available iron. In this case, amend with ericaceous soil and treat with iron chelate. Heavy, clay soils that retain too much water in winter should be avoided, as root asphyxiation weakens the plant.

Yes, t'he Katsura Japanese maple is o'ne of the Japanese maples best suited for growing in a pot or patio planter, thanks to its slow growth and compact habit. Choose a container o'f at least 40 to 50 cm in diameter and of good depth, with effective drainage holes. Use a well-draining, humus-rich substrate, based on quality potting soil mixed with compost and perlite. On the patio, preferably place it facing w'est for gentle morning sunlight, sheltered fr'om the wind and direct afternoon sun.

The foliage of the Katsura Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Katsura') offers a truly changing spectacle throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for four-season gardens. In spring, the young shoots appear in very bright orange to coppery hues, which gradually transition to a fresh, tender green as summer progresses. Autumn is this maple's star season: the foliage then takes on warm tones ranging from golden yellow to bright orange, or even flaming red depending on exposure and nighttime temperature fluctuations.