Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Red Autumn Lace’

Japanese maple, Cut-leaf maple, Laceleaf maple

Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Red Autumn Lace’ forms a graceful, finely-dissected mound of lacy red-purple foliage, turning fiery red in autumn. This compact Japanese maple is ideal for smaller gardens or pots. Architectural branching structure makes it attractive year-round.

Native to Japan, Acer palmatum is revered for centuries in traditional Japanese gardens. The dissectum forms, like ‘Red Autumn Lace’, were developed by horticulturists seeking more dramatic leaf shapes and colour. Japanese maples often symbolise serenity and elegance, with this laceleaf variety standing out for its intricate foliage texture. The species name ‘palmatum’ comes from the hand-like shape of the leaves. Once prized by collectors across Europe and North America, Acer palmatum continues its legacy as a garden favourite.

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Origin: Japan (species native), cultivar of horticultural origin

Genus: Acer

Species / Cultivar: palmatum dissectum 'Red Autumn Lace'

Common Name: Japanese maple, Cut-leaf maple, Laceleaf maple

Soil: Moist but Well Drained

Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.

Growth Rate: Slow

This plant is particularly slow to grow, even during growing season.

Water Requirement: Medium

Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.

Toxicity: Mildly toxic

May lead to nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting in pets, if ingested in large quantities.

Maintenance: Low

Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.

Situation: Part Shade

Enjoys several hours of direct sunlight but may enjoy dappling or shade at midday.

Eventual Height: 1.5-2m

The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.

Eventual Spread: 2-2.5m

The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.

Hardiness: Hardy

Survives unprotected in an average winter. May need protection in extreme long frosts.

Habit: Deciduous

Sheds all its foliage annually, so for a period of the year it will be without foliage.

Lifecycle: Perennial

This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.

Care and Guidance

Position Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Red Autumn Lace’ in partial shade to protect its delicate leaves from harsh afternoon sun and wind. Water regularly throughout the warmer months, ensuring the soil remains moist but never soggy, and reduce frequency in winter. Avoid limy soils, as this can cause leaf scorch or poor colouration. Its compact, cascading habit makes it suitable for feature planting in borders, rockeries, or decorative containers. Pruning is rarely needed and should be done in late summer if shaping is required.

Expert tip

Plant your Japanese maple in a spot protected from cold, drying winds, and mulch annually with leaf mould to help retain moisture and enhance root health. Pairing with low-growing evergreens or ornamental grasses further emphasises its elegant branch structure.