White Flower Farm
Acer palmatum dissectum 'Waterfall'
Best ornamental choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, elegant seasonal color.
The Acer palmatum dissectum 'Waterfall' is a highly regarded cut-leaf Japanese Maple, recognized as a Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Gold Medal Plant. It features deeply cut leaves and long, cascading branches that create an elegant, slightly weeping shape. Foliage transitions beautifully from emerald green in summer to a knockout fall display of bright gold tinged with orange and red. This small tree thrives in sun to partial shade, preferring average to moist, well-drained soil. It reaches a mature height of 6 to 8 feet with a spread of 8 to 10 feet, requiring minimal pruning.
$45.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
512
/ 1251
#512 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
SKU
60094
/ S
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a sculptural centerpiece for year-round visual appeal
- Landscapers prioritizing dramatic autumn color transitions
- Urban dwellers with limited patio or container space
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for inexpensive starter plants
- Gardeners in regions with harsh, direct afternoon sun
- Owners unable to provide specific soil and site maintenance
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Cascading branches and vibrant autumn hues create a stunning garden centerpiece.
Maintenance Ease
Slow growth and minimal pruning requirements make this a low-effort specimen.
Environmental Adaptability
Thrives in various zones but demands protection from harsh, drying winds.
Growth Rate
Steady, deliberate development rewards patient gardeners with a mature, elegant form.
Pest Resilience
Vulnerable to hungry rabbits, necessitating protective measures in susceptible garden areas.
Landscape Versatility
Compact size fits perfectly into small gardens or as a focal point.
Key Specs
SKU
S60094
Ships as
ONE GALLON POT
Mature Height
6-8 feet
Spacing
8-10 feet
Blooms In
April
Growth Rate
Slow to moderate (less than 12” per year)
Hardiness Zones
5-9
Features
- Offers knockout fall foliage color
- Maintains an elegant, slightly weeping shape
- Requires little pruning
- Leaves benefit from protection against drying winds and hot sun
- Susceptible to rabbit damage
What customers say
Customers consistently highlight the superior quality and health of the 'Waterfall' Japanese Maple upon delivery. Reviewers frequently mention the plant's robust size and the meticulous care taken in packaging, ensuring safe transit. While the price point is acknowledged as premium, the overwhelming consensus is that the plant's exceptional condition and vigorous growth provide excellent long term value. This high quality experience solidifies trust in White Flower Farm's horticultural standards.
Know before you buy
This tree reaches a mature height of 6 to 8 feet with a spread of 8 to 10 feet. You should space them at least 8 to 10 feet apart to allow for their natural, cascading habit.
No, it is a low-maintenance tree that requires very little pruning. Its elegant, weeping shape develops naturally as the tree grows.
It thrives in sun to partial shade. However, because the delicate leaves can be sensitive, it is best to provide protection from intense afternoon sun and drying winds.
The 'Waterfall' Japanese Maple is hardy in zones 5 through 9. It is a versatile choice for many climates, provided it is planted in average to moist, well-drained soil.
While generally hardy, this variety is susceptible to rabbit damage. If you have a high rabbit population in your area, consider using a protective tree guard or fencing around the base of the trunk.
This is a slow-to-moderate grower, typically adding less than 12 inches of new growth per year. Its gradual pace makes it an excellent choice for smaller garden spaces where you don't want a tree to quickly outgrow its location.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$45