The term 'Japanese maple' refers to three different types of maple from the Far East, all of which are quite similar in habit. Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), which is mainly cultivated for its delicate foliage and intense autumn color, is particularly popular. Basically, Japanese maples are one of the slow-growing trees, although their growth depends on the species and variety as well as the existing climatic conditions.
How fast does a Japanese maple grow per year?
The growth of a Japanese maple per year varies depending on the variety and conditions. Fast-growing varieties such as 'Osakazuki' and 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' can grow 15 to 40 cm per year, while slower varieties such as 'Butterfly' and 'Green Cascade' only grow 5 to 10 cm.
Annual growth is a maximum of 30 centimeters
Some Japanese maples are among the fast-growing plants and can grow up to 30 centimeters a year - provided, of course, that the climate, location and care are comfortable for the plant. Others, on the other hand, are very slow in their growth and gain a maximum of five to six centimeters per year.
Tip
The rather fast-growing varieties include the Japanese Japanese maple 'Osakazuki' with an annual growth of up to 15 centimeters or the dark red slot maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' with 20 to 40 centimeters. On the other hand, varieties such as Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' (up to eight centimeters) or Acer japonicum 'Green Cascade' (around five to ten centimeters) are rather slow.
