Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)

Native to southwestern Korea and central and southern Japan, this deciduous small tree usually grows up to 25 feet tall. Numerous cultivars have been selected for upright or weeping branches, finely dissected leaves, and striking red, orange or yellow autumn color. Laceleaf forms often develop low, spreading crowns. Most named cultivars are propagated by grafting to retain their characteristics. It can escape gardens and is considered invasive in Virginia and Washington, DC. Photographed in Washington, DC.