Golden falls
‘Golden Falls’ is a very strongly weeping Japanese maple, close to ‘Ryusei’ in silhouette, with one key difference: foliage that starts very orange in spring, then shifts to a bright golden yellow. In autumn, the palette returns to orange and red tones.
Character & interest
‘Golden Falls’ is above all a “line” cultivar: very pendulous branches, a cascading outline, ideal for creating a true waterfall effect. The golden foliage brings light without being overpowering—especially when placed in front of deep greens (conifers, evergreens).
Colours
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Spring : strong orange tones, highly decorative.
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Summer : settles into a golden yellow that stays bright for much of the season.
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Autumn : orange to red, often with a very warm finish.
Habit & vigour
Very strongly weeping habit.
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Trained on a stake: the plant grows up to the trained height, then cascades from that point (a “fountain” effect).
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Without staking: tends to spread and hang low, with an original groundcover-like look.
Indicative size
Good vigour for a weeping cultivar. Size depends strongly on training (staking / guiding). In practice, it’s a cultivar you “shape” more than you measure.
Exposure
Golden foliage reads best in gentle sun. In hot situations, bright partial shade (morning sun, protection in the afternoon) helps keep foliage more regular.
Origin & history
‘Golden Falls’ was introduced by Talon Buchholz. It is often presented as close to ‘Ryusei’ in habit, and described as a chance seedling of ‘Ryusei’, with a more golden expression through the season.
| Groupe MS | 3. Aureum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Weeping |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Jaune-orange |
| Couleur Été | Jaune d'or |
| Couleur Automne | Orange / Rouge |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |





