Is there a yellow Japanese maple?

There are yellow Japanese maples! One particular variety that comes to mind is Acer palmatum ‘Ryusen’. This stunning maple tree exhibits all the vibrant energy and graceful form of its parent, ‘Ryusen’, but with a delightful twist of pink emergence in spring and a brilliant yellow color in the summer. Its foliage really stands out in the garden, adding a pop of color and visual interest.

During the spring season, when this yellow Japanese maple begins to leaf out, you’ll notice the emergence of delicate pink tones. This pinkish hue adds a touch of softness and charm to the tree, creating a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery. It’s a lovely sight to behold and adds a unique element to the overall landscape.

As summer arrives, the foliage of A. palmatum ‘Ryusen’ transitions to a striking yellow color. The leaves take on a vibrant and sunny appearance, brightening up the garden and bringing a warm glow to the surroundings. This yellow color is highly appealing and adds a cheerful and energetic vibe to any landscape.

When fall arrives, this yellow Japanese maple really shines. The foliage turns a brilliant golden yellow, creating a captivating display of autumn colors. The tree becomes a focal point in the garden, drawing attention and admiration from all who see it. The vibrant yellow hues of the leaves create a breathtaking scene and bring a sense of joy to the autumn landscape.

It’s worth mentioning that there is another seedling of ‘Ryusen’ called Acer palmatum ‘Golden Falls’, which is very similar to A.p. ‘Ryusen’. This variety also boasts a cascading form and provides excellent yellow summer color. The similarity between the two seedlings highlights the beauty and desirability of yellow Japanese maples in the gardening world.

In my personal experience, I have seen the stunning effect of yellow Japanese maples in various landscapes. Whether used as a focal point in a garden bed or incorporated into a larger landscape design, these trees never fail to impress. Their vibrant yellow foliage adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any setting, and their cascading form creates a sense of movement and grace.

Yes, there are yellow Japanese maples, and they are a sight to behold. With their pink spring emergence, excellent yellow summer color, and bright golden fall foliage, these trees bring a burst of color and beauty to any garden or landscape. Whether you choose A.p. ‘Ryusen’ or A.p. ‘Golden Falls’, you can’t go wrong with a yellow Japanese maple in your garden.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.