Japanese Maple 'Summer Gold'

‘Summer Gold’ is a small, upright Japanese maple valued for bright foliage that shifts from pink in spring to yellow-green in summer and gold, orange, or red in autumn. RHS describes a rounded crown and slow growth; the cultivar is sold as Acer palmatum ‘Summer Gold’. ## Landscape use and seasonal interest Use it as a specimen in a small garden or patio container, where changing leaf color can be seen through the seasons. RHS describes seven-lobed leaves with a fine red margin in summer. It lists mature size around 5–8 ft tall and wide; Maple Ridge Nursery gives a ten-year estimate of 6–8 ft tall by 4–6 ft wide, while another nursery gives a much larger mature size. Allow room for this size variation. See the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/190709/acer-palmatum-summer-gold-p/details), [Maple Ridge Nursery](https://japanesemaplesandconifers.com/products/acer-palmatum-summer-gold?variant=45433596707039), and [Millais Nurseries](https://www.rhododendrons.co.uk/acer-palmatum-summer-gold/p2736). ## Siting and soil Plant in partial shade or a sheltered position with moist, well-drained soil. Some nurseries report better heat and sun tolerance than many Japanese maples, including full sun in many climates, but hot, dry air and late frost can still scorch leaves. Keep the root zone evenly moist and avoid poorly drained sites. ## Maintenance Water during dry weather, particularly during establishment. Protect from drying winds and mulch to buffer shallow roots from cold and moisture loss. Prune only as needed to preserve its rounded framework.