Acer Palmatum ‘Summer Gold’ 65cm Pot 200cm Height Outdoor Tree

Acer palmatum Summer Gold is an outstanding Japanese maple cultivar selected for its brilliant yellow foliage that lasts all summer, making it a true standout among acers. Where many yellow-leaved Japanese maples fade or scorch in strong light, Summer Gold retains its vibrant golden colour exceptionally well, even in full sun, and develops beautiful tones into autumn.

Key Features:

• Foliage: Broadly lobed, typical palmate leaves emerge bright yellow with delicate red edging in spring, maturing to clear golden-yellow through summer without bleaching. In autumn, they transition to a glowing orange and red, creating a spectacular seasonal show.

• Habit: Forms a small, upright, well-branched tree or large shrub with a rounded crown, typically reaching 23 metres high, with a similar spread over many years.

• Bark: Smooth greyish bark provides subtle winter interest once the leaves have fallen.

Because of its ability to hold strong yellow colour throughout the season and its compact, elegant shape, Summer Gold is perfect as a specimen tree in borders, small gardens, courtyards or even in large containers.

Detailed Care Guide for Acer palmatum Summer Gold

Position & Light

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade unusually for a yellow-leaved maple, Summer Gold tolerates more direct sun without leaf scorch than most.

• Best colour is achieved with at least some direct sun, though protection from harsh afternoon rays in very hot gardens is still beneficial.

Shelter

• Likes a sheltered position, protected from cold, drying winds which can damage leaves or cause browning at the edges.

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.

• Water thoroughly during dry spells, especially in the first few years or if grown in pots.

• Apply a mulch of bark or compost in spring to help retain moisture and keep roots cool.

Soil

• Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soil.

• Avoid very alkaline or heavy clay soils. If needed, plant in raised beds or containers using ericaceous compost mixed with grit for drainage.

Feeding

• Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a specialist acer feed.

• Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which encourage soft growth more prone to wind and frost damage.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Requires minimal pruning.

• Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while dormant.

• Avoid hard pruning, which spoils its graceful shape.

Pests & Problems

• Generally very healthy and low maintenance.

• May occasionally attract aphids on new shoots.

• Leaf scorch (browned tips or edges) is usually caused by drought, wind or intense sun, not disease though Summer Gold is more resistant than most.

Container Growing

• Excellent choice for large pots or planters, ideal on patios or terraces.

• Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure pots have good drainage and are raised on feet.

• Water consistently, and protect container roots in harsh winters by wrapping or moving to a sheltered spot.