Japanese Maple Tree Seeds | (Acer palmatum)
Japanese Maple Tree Seeds | (Acer palmatum)
A thousand varieties. One unmistakable presence.
Acer palmatum, the Japanese Maple, is one of the most refined and widely collected ornamental trees in the world. Its deeply cut, star-shaped leaves and ever-changing color palette bring texture, movement, and elegance to any space. Cultivated in Japan for centuries, it remains unmatched for its ability to deliver dramatic seasonal beauty in a compact, garden-friendly form. Seed-grown trees express the full natural diversity of the species, producing one-of-a-kind specimens with unique character.
- Delicate, deeply cut foliage with exceptional seasonal color
- Each seed-grown tree develops unique leaf shape and coloration
- Compact, elegant form ideal for small landscapes and focal points
- Brilliant fall color ranging from gold to deep crimson
- Highly valued for bonsai and artistic pruning
Things You Probably Didn’t Know
There are over a thousand cultivated forms.
Japanese Maple has been selected and refined for centuries, resulting in an extraordinary range of forms and colors. Seed-grown trees continue that tradition of variation.
It transforms throughout the year.
Leaves often emerge one color in spring, deepen or shift in summer, and then ignite into vivid tones in fall, offering multiple visual phases in a single season.
It supports more than just aesthetics.
The seeds feed birds and small mammals, while the canopy provides cover and habitat within the garden ecosystem.
It can be shaped into living art.
Japanese Maple responds exceptionally well to bonsai and pruning, allowing growers to shape trees that appear far older than they are.
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Acer palmatum
- Stratification: Required; 90–120 days cold moist stratification
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic, rich in organic matter
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; best with morning sun and afternoon protection
- Height: 15–25 feet
- Spread: 15–25 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate (1–2 ft/year)
Grow it from seed and it will be yours in a way no nursery tree ever could be. Every Japanese Maple started this way is a small original.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
