Trees

Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'

Seiryu Japanese maple

Seiryu Japanese maple in spring. Photo: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Seiryu combines finely divided laceleaf foliage with an upright tree form, unlike the familiar weeping laceleaf maples. Green spring leaves may have delicate colored margins before settling into summer green. The canopy broadens with age, while autumn color varies by climate from yellow and orange to red or burgundy.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Size: Height: 14–16 ft in 10 years · Width: 10–12 ft in 10 years
Water: Evenly moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA 5–9

Sizes & prices

#7$249.99

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
Foliage: Deciduous
Form: Upright
Growth rate: Fast (grower rating)

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Mild resistance reported for Japanese maple; protect young trees.
Drought: Poor tolerance; dry soil can scorch leaves.
Wet soil: Needs drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

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

Seasonal interest

Fall color: Red

Growing & care

Soil: Humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist but freely draining soil; avoid saturated planting pockets.
Pruning: Keep pruning minimal and preserve the natural branching. Remove dead or crossing shoots; make small corrective cuts after full leaf expansion to limit sap bleeding. Cut back to a well-placed side branch, without leaving stubs.

Sources & photo credits

Maple Ridge Nursery

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

Iowa State University Extension

Royal Horticultural Society

Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Seiryu Japanese maple in spring. Photo: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Wikimedia 960 px thumbnail; no other edits.

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