Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Viridis’

The green lace leaf weeping maple (Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis') is a small sculptural tree that grows to about 2m tall and 2.5m wide, building a layered, weeping mound of finely cut foliage. The leaves open fresh green in spring, stay soft and cool through summer, then colour richly in autumn before dropping to show the winter framework. Few plants give a courtyard this much presence from this little ground.

Why you'll love it

• A living sculpture. The weeping habit builds layer on layer into a form that looks deliberate from every angle, even bare in winter.
• Real autumn colour. The dissected leaves turn warm autumn tones before they drop, a proper seasonal event in the right climate.
• Safe for pets and paving. It is not toxic to cats or dogs, and its non-invasive roots sit calmly beside paths, walls and pots.
• Low maintenance by nature. Once positioned well it asks for water, mulch and very little else.

Where it works best

Feature planting. Give it a position where the shape reads: beside steps, in a raised bed, at the corner of a deck. It is a specimen, not a filler.

Pots, balconies and courtyards. It lives happily for years in a wide container, which also lets you move it away from harsh afternoon sun in high summer.

Small gardens. At about 2m tall and 2.5m wide it delivers tree presence at shrub scale. Allow for the spread, because it finishes wider than it is tall.

Growing Japanese maple Viridis in Australia

Position and climate. Morning sun or bright dappled light, with shelter from hot afternoon sun and drying wind. Exposed positions scorch the fine foliage. It is frost hardy and belongs in cool temperate and warm temperate gardens; the humid tropics and subtropics do not suit it.

Soil. Moist, well drained soil enriched with compost. Mulch 50mm to 75mm deep to keep the shallow roots cool, keeping the mulch off the trunk.

Water and feed. Consistent moisture matters more than volume. Never let a potted specimen dry right out in summer. Feed lightly in early spring with a slow release fertiliser.

Pruning. Almost none. Remove dead twigs in winter and any crossing branch that spoils the line. The weeping shape is the point, so do not clip it into a ball.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Viridis in 250mm pots as a pack of three, as single 400mm and 500mm plants, and as advanced 90L and 100L specimens with years of structure already built. Advanced and large stock is freighted at cost. If you order in winter the tree may arrive leafless, which is exactly as it should be for a deciduous maple. Orders are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Essential Japanese maple care for Australian gardens
• Browse our deciduous trees
• More plants that thrive in pots
• Plants sized for small gardens

Common questions

Why are the leaf edges going brown and crisp?

Leaf scorch from hot afternoon sun or drying wind is the most common complaint with lace leaf maples. Move a potted tree, or improve shelter and watering for a planted one, and the next flush will come away clean.

Can it live in a pot long term?

Yes, it is one of the best small trees for containers. Use a wide pot, a premium mix, morning sun and reliable water, and refresh the mix every few years.

Is it safe around cats and dogs?

Yes. This maple is not toxic to cats or dogs, so it is a safe choice for courtyards and family gardens.

Will it grow in warmer climates?

It is reliable in cool temperate and warm temperate gardens. North of that, heat and humidity work against it, and it needs morning sun only plus serious summer shelter to have any chance.