Acer Summer Surprise
Notify MeAcer palmatum Summer Surprise is a unique deciduous Japanese maple with finely lobed, variegated foliage. The leaves emerge green with cream margins in Spring, accented with splashes of pink. Throughout Summer, the foliage retains its variegation with subtle changes, and in Autumn, it transforms into a dazzling display of fiery red and orange. Its compact, upright habit makes it ideal for smaller gardens or container planting.
Perfect for Japanese-inspired gardens, courtyards, or as a feature in mixed borders. Thrives in partial shade to full sun, with protection from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun to preserve its delicate variegation. Prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil with consistent moisture, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Allow 2–3 metres of spacing for its compact growth.
Reaches a mature height of 2–3 metres with a spread of 1.5–2 metres, forming a tidy, upright silhouette.
- Trimming: Prune acers in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as acers have a natural, graceful form.
- Fertilising: Apply a slow-release fertiliser formulated for trees and shrubs in spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which may encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of the plant's natural form.
- Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase and in dry periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- Pest Control: Look out for aphids and scale insects. Remove them by hand, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybirds.
- Disease Management: Watch for verticillium wilt, indicated by wilting leaves and branch dieback. Remove affected branches promptly and dispose of them away from healthy plants. Improve soil drainage to reduce risks.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
