Trees

Acer japonicum 'Vitifolium'

Grape-leaf full moon maple

Grape-leaf full moon maple in fall. Photo: Jonathan Billinger / Geograph via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.

Large, grape-like leaves give Vitifolium a bolder texture than many Japanese maples. They emerge green with bronze shading, deepen in summer and turn varied yellow, orange and red in autumn. Small red spring flowers are noticeable against new foliage, while sturdy branches support a rounded, spreading crown.

At a glance

Sun: Partial shade in hot climates
Size: Height: 10–15 ft in 10 years · Width: 8–10 ft in 10 years
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA 5–9

Sizes & prices

#25Full Moon Japanese MapleCall for price

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

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen
Form: Rounded crown
Growth rate: Fast
Foliage: Deciduous

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Generally avoided once established, according to the grower; young plants may need protection.
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: Array of yellows, oranges, and reds

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

MrMaple

Iowa State University Extension

dragonflyfarmlanglois.com

Photo: Jonathan Billinger · CC BY-SA 2.0

Image notes: Grape-leaf full moon maple in fall. Photo: Jonathan Billinger / Geograph via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0. Wikimedia 960 px thumbnail; no other edits.

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