Acer Palmatum ‘Summer Gold’
Acer Palmatum ‘Summer Gold’
Pickup available at Parker Ranch Japanese Maples
Usually ready in 2-4 days
Product Description
Summer Gold Japanese Maple is a beautiful upright cultivar prized for its brilliant golden foliage and impressive heat tolerance. New leaves emerge bright chartreuse to yellow-green in spring, often accented by a fine red edge, before intensifying to a glowing golden yellow as summer progresses. Unlike many light-colored Japanese maples, 'Summer Gold' is known for holding its color well in sunnier conditions.
In fall, the golden canopy transforms into warm shades of orange and fiery red, providing exceptional three-season color. Its manageable size, upright habit, and ability to tolerate more sun than many golden cultivars make 'Summer Gold' an excellent specimen for garden beds, patios, smaller landscapes, and Japanese-inspired gardens.
Tree Details
Botanical Name: Acer palmatum 'Summer Gold'
Common Name: Summer Gold Japanese Maple
Growth Habit: Upright, developing a dense rounded canopy
Size in 10 Years: Approximately 6–9 ft tall × 4–5 ft wide
Growth Rate: Moderate, approximately 12–18 inches per year
Sun Exposure: Sun to partial shade; afternoon protection can still be beneficial in very hot Southern locations
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Spring Color: Chartreuse to yellow-green, often edged in red
Summer Color: Bright golden yellow
Fall Color: Golden orange to fiery red
Notable Feature: Brilliant golden foliage with better sun and heat tolerance than many yellow-leaved Japanese maples
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil; slightly acidic conditions are ideal
Helpful Information
Shipping & Local Pickup
We carefully pack each tree for safe shipment from our South Carolina nursery. Nationwide shipping is available throughout the continental U.S. Local pickup is also available in South Carolina. You'll be able to select your available delivery or pickup option at checkout.
Online orders are limited to 15 trees per order. For larger orders, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.
View our full Shipping & Delivery information.
Japanese Maple Care
Japanese maples thrive in well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Most varieties prefer morning sun with protection from intense afternoon heat, especially in warmer climates. Water deeply when needed, allowing the soil to remain moist but never waterlogged. For the best results, always consider the specific sun, size, and growing information listed in the Tree Details above.
View our full Japanese Maple Care Guide.
What to Expect
Each tree is a living plant and naturally unique. The tree you receive may vary slightly from the photos in size, shape, branching, and foliage color. Appearance will also change throughout the growing season, and trees may arrive with different foliage or dormancy depending on the time of year.