Autumn moon

Character & interest

This cultivar stands out for its colour gradient across several seasons, with a particularly original spring display (warm tones on rounded leaves). The effect is often best when the tree receives gentle sun (morning) and remains protected from excessive heat. The silhouette is naturally harmonious, and the plant integrates easily into a well-kept garden or a collection.

Colours

• Spring : salmon / orange / apricot tones, often strongly marked, sometimes on a light green to chartreuse background (varies with exposure).

• Summer : yellow-green to yellowish green.

• Autumn : orange, then red (sometimes with golden nuances).

Habit & vigour

Large shrub / small tree habit, generally bushy, sometimes multi-stemmed. Moderate vigour: steady growth in fertile, cool soil, without being a “fast” cultivar.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• often around 1.8 to 2.5 m tall at about 10 years,

• with a similar spread, sometimes 1.5 to 2.5 m depending on branching,

• in the long term, it can become a broader small tree (several metres) in the ground, depending on conditions.

Exposure

Bright partial shade or morning sun. For best results, avoid scorching afternoon sun (especially in a hot climate or in a container). A position sheltered from drying winds helps limit leaf dehydration.

Origin & history

‘Autumn Moon’ is generally presented as a chance seedling selected and introduced by J.D. Vertrees, author and major figure in the literature on Japanese maples. The name evokes the warm, changing palette of the foliage, particularly expressive from spring through autumn.