Moonrise

Character & interest

‘Moonrise’ combines the “full moon” look (rounded, well-cut leaves) with extended interest: red budbreak, a fresh yellow-green season, then orange/red autumn color. It is often appreciated because it gives a “golden” effect while showing very visible red shoots in spring.

Colours

• Spring : young leaves vivid red to rosy red, then a transition toward lighter tones.

• Summer : yellow-green / chartreuse (may turn a bit greener during hot spells).

• Autumn : orange then red (intensity varies with climate and exposure).

Habit & vigour

Rather compact to rounded habit, forming a large shrub / small tree. Moderate to good vigor: steady growth if the soil stays cool and moist in summer.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• about 2 to 2.5 m at around 10 years (often),

• over time, it can form a small tree of about 3 to 4 m,

• spread generally balanced (often 2 to 3 m at maturity depending on conditions).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun (morning). To preserve foliage quality, avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in containers.

Origin & history

‘Moonrise’ is a seedling discovered in Oregon by maple specialist Carl Munn, mentioned as found in 1991. The cultivar circulated under the code ‘Munn001’ (often with the mention PBR). It was then widely distributed commercially under the name ‘Moonrise’.