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Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum'
Confirmed format: 3 Litre Pot
Plant Highlights: Luminous golden foliage • Rounded, full-moon shaped leaves • Spectacular autumn colour • Slow-growing ornamental tree • Ideal for specimen planting and Japanese-style gardens
Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum', commonly known as the Golden Full Moon Maple, is one of the finest golden-leaved Japanese maples. Its distinctive rounded, softly lobed leaves emerge in glowing yellow tones and retain their bright colour through much of the growing season before developing rich shades of orange and red in autumn. With its naturally slow-growing, bushy habit, this elegant deciduous tree is perfectly suited to smaller gardens, sheltered borders and large patio containers. The luminous foliage provides a striking contrast with darker shrubs and evergreens, making it a superb focal point throughout the growing season.
A standout golden Japanese maple whose luminous, full-moon shaped leaves bring glowing colour, beautiful contrast and vibrant autumn tones to sheltered garden spaces.
| Botanical Name | Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum' |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Golden Full Moon Maple |
| Plant Type | Deciduous ornamental tree |
| Foliage | Bright golden-yellow rounded leaves, turning orange and red in autumn |
| Flower Colour | Small crimson flowers |
| Flowering Season | Spring |
| Position | Partial shade or full sun |
| Soil | Moist, fertile, well-drained soil |
| Growth Habit | Slow-growing, bushy small tree |
| Best Uses | Specimen planting, Japanese gardens, woodland gardens and large containers |
| Mature Height | Approximately 4–8m |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 4–8m |
| Hardiness | RHS H6 (−20°C to −15°C). |
| Planting & Position | Plant in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in a sheltered position. Partial shade is ideal, especially in warmer or more exposed sites, helping the golden foliage retain its colour and reducing the risk of leaf scorch. In full sun, ensure the soil remains evenly moist during dry weather. |
|---|---|
| Care & Mulching | Apply a spring mulch to conserve moisture and keep the root area cool. |
| Pruning | Very little pruning is required. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches during late autumn or winter while the tree is dormant. Allow the tree to develop its naturally graceful shape. |
| Supplied Format | 3 Litre Pot |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Slow-growing deciduous ornamental tree |
| Key Feature | Brilliant golden foliage with outstanding autumn colour |
| Ideal For | Specimen planting, Japanese gardens and large patio containers |
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