Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’ – A Compact Japanese Maple with Seasonal Charm
Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’ is a delightful dwarf Japanese Maple, perfect for small gardens, rockeries, and container planting. Its finely serrated, bright green leaves emerge in spring with a soft reddish tint, maturing to a lush green in summer, before transforming into a stunning golden-orange with red highlights in autumn. With its compact, mounded habit, this variety provides year-round structure and colour, making it a charming addition to any landscape..
Why Grow Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’?
- Dwarf, Compact Form – Perfect for small spaces, patios, and containers.
- Seasonal Colour Changes – Fresh green spring growth, vibrant summer foliage, and fiery autumn tones.
- Delicate, Finely Cut Leaves – Adds an elegant, airy texture to planting schemes.
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Hardy & Easy to Grow – Requires minimal maintenance and is resilient in a variety of conditions.
Height of Plant
Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’ grows to 1.5 meters tall with a similar spread, forming a dense, rounded shape.
Where to Site Your Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’
This charming Japanese Maple thrives in partial shade to full sun, preferring moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It’s an excellent choice for rock gardens, small courtyards, container displays, and mixed shrub borders. It pairs beautifully with ferns, dwarf conifers, azaleas, and heucheras, creating contrast and texture.
How to Grow and Care for Your Acer palmatum ‘Little Princess’
- Soil – Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
- Light – Thrives in partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Watering – Keep soil evenly moist, especially in dry spells.
Maintenance:
- Mulching – Apply mulch in spring to help retain moisture and protect roots.
- Pruning – Minimal pruning required; remove dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring.
- Protection from Harsh Sun – Some afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter regions to prevent leaf scorch.
- Winter Care – Protect young plants in exposed areas from strong winds.
