We're offering you a 1 or 2 Acer Starfish Potted Plants for £29.99, saving you up to 25% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £39.99 (correct as of 14.07.2025).

Acer palmatum 'Starfish' – Japanese Maple with Unique Appeal

Acer palmatum 'Starfish', a compact Japanese Maple, brings drama and structure to gardens large or small. This ornamental tree is prized for its deeply divided, star-shaped leaves that emerge purple-red in spring and intensify to fiery scarlet by autumn—creating a spectacular seasonal display.

• Botanical Family: Aceraceae (Maple family)
• Mature Size: Up to 200cm (79") tall, spreading to 75cm (30") wide—perfect for patios, borders, or as a focal point in smaller spaces.
• Leaf Shape: Distinctive palmately lobed leaves resemble starfish, adding year-round interest even when bare.

Cultivation & Care Guide

• Light: Thrives best in partial shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun which may scorch delicate foliage.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Avoid chalky or alkaline soils for optimal colour.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells and the first growing season.
• Hardiness: Hardy in UK gardens (USDA zones 5–8). Mulch roots in winter to protect from extreme cold.

Planting & Maintenance Tips

• When to Plant: Best planted in autumn or early spring while dormant.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed—remove dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
• Feeding: Use an ericaceous fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and vivid leaf colour.

Design Inspiration & Companions

• Add as a feature plant in Japanese-style gardens or shaded courtyards.
• Pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, azaleas, and other shade-loving perennials that enjoy similar conditions.

Potted & Ready to Thrive

Your Acer palmatum 'Starfish' arrives healthy and established in a 3 litre nursery pot—simply transplant into your chosen spot and watch it flourish for years to come!

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant Acer palmatum 'Starfish'?
  The ideal time is autumn or early spring while the plant is dormant for best root establishment.
• How quickly does this variety grow?
  This Japanese Maple grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching full height over 10–15 years.
• What type of soil does it prefer?
  'Starfish' thrives in moist, well-drained acidic soils. Avoid alkaline or chalky ground for optimal leaf colour and health.