Japanese Laceleaf Maple

About this plant

Acer palmatum subsp. matsumurae 'Tamukeyama' is a highly prized Japanese Laceleaf Maple, celebrated for its deeply cut, burgundy-red leaves that hold their color remarkably well throughout the growing season. In autumn, the foliage intensifies to brilliant scarlet and crimson, creating a breathtaking display before gracefully falling. This cultivar features a distinctive cascading form, with branches that gently weep towards the ground, making it an ideal specimen for a focal point, container planting, or softening hardscapes. Its delicate texture and vibrant color provide striking contrast in any garden setting, from sophisticated urban patios to serene woodland borders. 'Tamukeyama' is a relatively slow-growing maple, developing into a magnificent, sculptural presence over time. Its unique beauty and manageable size make it a quintessential choice for gardeners seeking an elegant and enduring ornamental tree.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Provide well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Mulch annually to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Prune minimally in late winter to early spring, only to remove dead or crossing branches.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.