Trees

Acer japonicum 'Aconitifolium'

Fernleaf full moon maple

Fernleaf full moon maple autumn foliage. Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0.

Known as fernleaf maple or Dancing Peacock, Aconitifolium is especially valued for its dramatic autumn foliage. Yellow, orange and red can appear together across the same canopy. This Japanese maple's deeply divided leaves provide a distinctive texture, making the seasonal change as much about leaf shape as color.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Size: Height: 10–15 ft · Width: 6–10 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA 5a–7b

Sizes & prices

#40Full Moon Japanese Maple$549.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Patio specimen; container; bonsai
Form: Rounded to vase-shaped
Growth rate: Slow
Foliage: Deciduous

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Grower lists resistance; browsing is still possible.
Drought: Prefers consistent moisture; water during dry spells to limit leaf scorch.
Wet soil: Needs reliable drainage; do not keep roots waterlogged.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Seasonal interest

Fall color: Yellow, orange and red, often together

Growing & care

Site: Shelter from strong winds; afternoon shade helps in hot summers.
Pruning: Prune lightly, removing dead, damaged or rubbing branches while preserving the natural outline. For elective cuts, wait until the leaves are fully expanded to reduce maple sap bleeding; large limbs need a qualified arborist.
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil; shelter from drying winds and harsh afternoon sun.

Sources & photo credits

Maple Ridge Nursery

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

University of Florida IFAS Extension

Iowa State University Extension

Quackin’ Grass Nursery

Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT · CC BY 3.0

Image notes: Fernleaf full moon maple autumn foliage. Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0. Wikimedia 960 px thumbnail; no other edits.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.