Osakazuki Japanese Maple
Best ornamental tree for gardeners seeking vibrant autumn color in shade.
The Osakazuki Japanese Maple is an excellent small specimen tree known for its graceful structure and striking foliage. Its deeply lobed leaves emerge with an olive-orange tint in spring, maturing to a vibrant green throughout the summer. This deciduous tree is highly valued for its spectacular fall display, turning a brilliant crimson red that holds for several weeks. It thrives best when sheltered from harsh afternoon sun, making it suitable for woodland settings or lightly shaded urban landscapes. Care involves providing slightly acidic, well-drained soil and regular deep watering during establishment.
$189.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
8
/ 1377
#8 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
+77%
Above average
Mature Height
25
/ feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a high-impact seasonal focal point
- Homeowners in warmer climates wanting sun-hardy maple varieties
- Landscapers needing strong architectural structure for year-round interest
Who should skip it
- Urban gardeners with limited space or small planting areas
- Collectors looking for colorful foliage throughout the growing season
- Beginner gardeners intimidated by regular structural maintenance
Performance breakdown
Fall Color Intensity
Produces a legendary crimson display that outshines most other maple varieties.
Structural Elegance
Graceful branching provides a sophisticated architectural silhouette throughout the winter months.
Urban Adaptability
Thrives in sheltered city landscapes with consistent moisture and proper care.
Growth Predictability
Steady medium growth rate makes long-term garden planning simple and reliable.
Sun Sensitivity
Requires careful placement to avoid leaf scorch from harsh afternoon sun.
Establishment Ease
Becomes waterwise once settled but demands attention during the initial planting phase.
Key Specs
Mature Height
25 feet
Mature Width
25 feet
Growth Rate
Medium
Hardiness Zone
5
Foliage Color
Green
Water Needs
Average to Moist
Pruning Time
Prune In Full Leaf
Features
- Gracefully branched stems provide year-round structure
- Medium growth rate for steady development
- Waterwise once established
- Suitable for urban landscape applications
- Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the exceptional quality and health of the trees received from Monrovia. The primary delight centers on the stunning, reliable fall color, which is the defining characteristic of the Osakazuki variety. Buyers frequently note that the trees arrive well packaged and robust, establishing easily in the landscape. While the initial price point is sometimes mentioned, the long term aesthetic impact and reliable performance justify the investment, leading to high satisfaction regarding value.
Know before you buy
This tree reaches a mature size of 25 feet in both height and width. You should ensure you have a planting site that allows for a 25-foot spread to accommodate its full, graceful structure.
The Osakazuki thrives in light shade or woodland settings. It is best to shelter it from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves and diminish the quality of its foliage.
While the tree is considered waterwise once established, it requires regular, deep watering during its initial growth phase. Once the root system is fully developed, it can handle average to moist soil conditions.
You should prune your Osakazuki only when it is in full leaf. Pruning during this time helps you better visualize the structure and ensures the tree remains healthy.
Yes, this variety is hardy down to Zone 5. It is a resilient choice for many temperate regions, provided it is planted in well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
The Osakazuki is highly prized for its autumn performance. Its foliage turns a brilliant, intense crimson red that typically holds its color for several weeks.
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$190