Best Japanese Maple For Full Sun: 5 Varieties

Japanese maples are beloved for their beautiful foliage, ranging in color from bright red to deep purple. Unfortunately, many Japanese maple species are more sensitive to full light than other varieties.

Leaf burn can occur in the summer heat on some of these plants. If you choose the appropriate kind, prepare the soil correctly, and take care of it after planting, you can enjoy the splendor of Japanese maple trees in full sun.


Leaf Burn On Japanese Maple

best japanese maple for full sun

Leaf burn on Japanese maple is a common problem faced by gardeners. The first step in preventing leaf burn is to understand the causes. The most common cause is exposure to sunlight.

When leaves are exposed to direct sunlight, they can become stressed and lose moisture. This can cause the edges of the leaves to turn brown and crispy. Overwatering is one of the most common reasons for leaves to burn.

If the plant’s roots are constantly wet, they can start to rot. This can lead to brown patches on the leaves or even complete leaf loss. Finally, wind and cold weather can also cause leaf burn. If leaves are exposed to strong winds or freezing temperatures, they can become dried out and damaged.

It is essential to provide your Japanese maple with some protection from the sun to prevent leaf burn. This can be done by planting it in a shady spot or using a shading cloth during the day’s hottest hours. It is also important to water your plant deeply but less frequently.

Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering so that the roots don’t stay wet all the time. If you live in an area with frigid winters, you may need to wrap your plant in burlap or another protective material to prevent wind damage.


Japanese Maple Varieties for Full Sun

best japanese maple for full sun

If you live in a sunny area and would still love to plant a Japanese maple, fret no more. Here are types of Japanese maple that can withstand direct light.

Sangu Kaku

The ‘Sangu Kaku’ is a beautiful and unique tree that is perfect for adding interest to any yard or garden. This tree, also known as the Coral Bark Maple, has bright-colored branches that are simply magnificent in the winter and spring.

The colorful twigs stand out against the bright green new leaves. They become a deeper green and then a lighter peach-gold in the fall in the summer. This tree can grow 15-20 feet tall and almost as wide, making it a perfect specimen tree. Whether you are looking to add color or want a unique focal point, the ‘Sangu Kaku’ is an excellent choice.

Inaba Shidare

The Red cascade weeping Japanese maple is a stunning addition to any landscape. The foliage becomes dark red in the spring, gradually turning bronze and then green as the summer progresses.

On the other hand, the leaves change a brilliant crimson in the fall, providing great contrast to the other plants in your garden. This tree grows quickly, reaching 4-6 feet in ten years. It has a big spread of 7-9 feet, making it an ideal focal point in your yard.

Whether you are looking for seasonal color or year-round interest, the Red cascade weeping Japanese maple will add beauty and style to your home.

Seiryu

The ‘Seiryu’ is a unique Japanese maple known for its vase-like shape. It is an excellent addition to any tiny area, reaching a height of 10-15 feet and a width of 6-8 feet. The young leaves are marbled with red, then turn pure green in the summer and gold with crimson flushes in the fall, making it a gorgeous tree for any yard.

The ‘Seiryu’ is easy to care for and is low maintenance, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a unique tree that will add beauty and interest to their home.

Waterfall

The Waterfall is a lovely, finely-textured dissectum with a cascading growth habit. The leaves are brilliant, sparkling green in the spring and dark green in the summer before fading to a brilliant flame-orange in the fall. It has a spread of 12′ and grows no more than 10 feet tall, with a maximum width of 10 feet.

‘Waterfall’ is a stunning addition to any garden, and its easy care makes it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. With its multi-season interest and unique growth habit, ‘Waterfall’ will add beauty and intrigue to your landscape.

Tamukeyama

The ‘Tamukeyama’ Japanese maple is a popular cultivar known for its vibrant red leaves and graceful weeping habit. This tree has been in cultivation for over 300 years and continues to be a favorite among gardeners.

‘Tamukeyama’ reaches a height of 5-7 feet and a width of at least 7 feet in ten years. The leaves turn a scarlet color in the fall, adding to the tree’s appeal. If you are looking for a beautiful tree with unique leaves, ‘Tamukeyama’ is an excellent choice.


Final Thoughts

Japanese maples are beautiful trees that can add interest and style to any landscape. If you live in a sunny area, plenty of options are still available.

‘Sangu Kaku,’ ‘Inaba Shidare,’ ‘Seiryu,’ ‘Waterfall,’ and ‘Tamukeyama’ are all great choices for full sun. These trees will add beauty and style to your home with their unique leaf shapes and colors.

Related Article: How Do You Plant A Japanese Maple in Clay Soil