Why Edwards is a Specialist Japanese Maple Grower

For over 70 years, Edwards Garden Centres have been perfecting the art of growing Japanese Maples in Staffordshire. Our Walled Nursery in Eccleshall provides the ideal sheltered microclimate for these elegant trees. Protected from harsh winds and extreme temperature fluctuations, our Acers develop strong root systems and vibrant foliage that will bring year-round beauty to your garden.

Japanese Maples are one of the most versatile and rewarding trees for Staffordshire gardens. From the deep burgundy leaves of 'Atropurpureum' to the fiery autumn colour of 'Osakazuki', and the delicate dissected foliage of 'Crimson Queen', each variety offers something unique. Whether you are looking for a statement specimen for a large border, a focal point in a courtyard, or a container tree for a patio, we have the expertise to guide you to the perfect choice.

What sets Edwards apart is that we grow our Japanese Maples right here in Staffordshire. This means every tree is already acclimatised to the local climate, soil conditions, and seasonal variations. Locally grown maples establish faster, suffer less transplant shock, and are far more likely to thrive in your garden than trees shipped in from elsewhere. Our knowledgeable team understand which varieties perform best in Staffordshire's clay soils and can advise on positioning, planting, and aftercare specific to our region.

Where to Find Our Japanese Maples

The Walled Nursery

Eccleshall, ST21 6BD

Our Specialist Collection

This is where we grow our entire Japanese Maple collection. The historic walled garden provides a sheltered, protected environment that creates the perfect microclimate for Acers. You will find the full range of varieties here, along with expert advice from our team who know these plants intimately.

Full collection of all 21 varieties
Sheltered walled garden setting
Specialist growing area
Expert advice from growers

01785 850 400 More Info

Bury Bank Garden Centre

Nr Stone, ST15 0QA

Display Selection

We stock a curated selection of popular Japanese Maple varieties at Bury Bank, displayed in our larger show area with easy access from the main road. Perfect if you are looking for the classic favourites and want the convenience of our Stone location.

Popular varieties in stock
Larger display area
Easy access from A34
Knowledgeable staff

01782 796 353 More Info

Our Japanese Maple Collection

All 21 varieties of Acer palmatum grown at our Walled Nursery in Eccleshall. Each tree is carefully cultivated to ensure it thrives in Staffordshire gardens.

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'

Acer palmatum 'Japanese Jewels'

Acer palmatum 'Little Princess'

Acer palmatum 'Jerre Schwartz'

Acer palmatum 'Tropenberg'

Acer palmatum 'Orange Dream'

Acer palmatum 'Going Green'

Acer palmatum 'Katsura'

Acer palmatum 'Taylor'

Acer palmatum 'Winter Jewels'

Acer palmatum 'Emerald Lace'

Acer palmatum 'Skeeters Broom'

Acer palmatum 'Shaina'

Acer palmatum 'Peve Dave'

Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen'

Acer palmatum 'Inaba-Shidare'

Acer palmatum 'Garnet'

Acer palmatum 'Dissectum'

Acer palmatum 'Osakizuki'

Acer palmatum 'Red Wine'

Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi'

Growing Japanese Maples in Staffordshire

Choosing Your Acer

Consider your space and conditions when selecting a variety:

• Aspect: Most Acers prefer dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade
• Size: Upright varieties suit borders, dissected varieties work well in pots
• Leaf type: Dissected (lace-leaf) or palmatum (broad-leaf) forms

Planting Tips

Set your Japanese Maple up for success:

• Soil: Improve Staffordshire clay with compost and grit for drainage
• Position: Shelter from cold east winds which can scorch new growth
• Protection: Avoid frost pockets in low-lying areas

Seasonal Care

Keep your Acer healthy year-round:

• Pruning: Minimal pruning in late summer only, never in spring
• Feeding: Ericaceous feed in spring, suited to acid-loving plants
• Winter: Protect container-grown plants from hard frosts

Japanese Maple Questions Answered

Do Japanese maples grow well in Staffordshire?

Yes, Japanese Maples thrive in Staffordshire when given the right conditions. Our relatively mild winters and sheltered spots protect them from harsh frosts. The key is choosing locally grown specimens that are already acclimatised. Our Acers are grown in Staffordshire clay, so they adapt quickly when planted in your garden.

When is the best time to plant Japanese maples?

The ideal planting times are autumn (September to November) or early spring (March to April). Autumn planting allows roots to establish over winter before the growing season. Spring planting works well too, but ensure you water regularly through the first summer. Avoid planting during hard frosts or very hot, dry periods.

What are the best Japanese maples for small gardens?

For small gardens and containers, look for dissected or dwarf varieties like 'Crimson Queen', 'Dissectum', 'Garnet', 'Little Princess', or 'Shaina'. These slower-growing, more compact forms reach 1.5-2m and can be kept smaller with light pruning. They are perfect for courtyards, patios, or borders where space is limited.

Do Japanese maples need shade or sun?

Most Japanese Maples prefer dappled shade or a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in Staffordshire where afternoon sun can be intense in summer. Full sun can scorch delicate leaves, particularly on dissected varieties. However, too much shade results in less vibrant autumn colour. A sheltered spot with filtered light is ideal.

How big do Japanese maples get?

This varies by variety. Upright forms like 'Atropurpureum' and 'Osakazuki' can reach 4-6m over many years. Dissected varieties like 'Crimson Queen' or 'Garnet' typically stay smaller at 1.5-2.5m. Dwarf varieties like 'Shaina' may only reach 1-1.5m. Growth is slow, and many can be kept compact with light pruning. Visit us to discuss which size suits your garden.

Ready to Choose Your Japanese Maple?

Visit our Walled Nursery in Eccleshall to see the full collection, or call us for expert advice on selecting the perfect Acer for your garden.

Walled Nursery: 01785 850 400 Bury Bank: 01782 796 353

Japanese Maples