Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’ – Golden Full Moon Japanese Maple

Short Description

Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’ is a vibrant full moon Japanese maple featuring bright orange-red spring growth that matures to chartreuse with red highlights. Its bold color shifts and upright form make it a standout specimen tree for landscapes and collectors.

Full Description

The Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’ is one of the most striking full moon Japanese maples, prized for its brilliant color transitions and strong upright growth. In spring, new leaves emerge in vivid shades of pink, orange and red, creating an intense burst of early-season color.

As the season progresses, the foliage matures into bright chartreuse tones accented with red margins and highlights, providing a glowing effect in the landscape. The leaves are large and rounded, typical of Acer shirasawanum, adding a bold, tropical texture compared to finer-leaf maples.

In fall, ‘Moonrise’ delivers another impressive display, transitioning into rich shades of orange and red.

This cultivar grows with a vigorous, upright habit, forming a small ornamental tree that is ideal for focal points, landscape accents, or collector gardens. It performs best with protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in warmer climates, to maintain its vibrant coloration.

Because of its intense spring color, glowing summer foliage, and strong structure, Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’ is considered one of the best golden Japanese maples available.

Key Features

• Brilliant orange-red spring growth
• Matures to chartreuse foliage with red highlights
• Large, rounded full moon maple leaves
• Strong upright growth habit
• Stunning orange to red fall color
• Excellent specimen tree or focal point

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’
Plant Type: Deciduous Ornamental Tree
Sun Requirements: Partial Shade to Full Sun (protect from intense afternoon sun)
Mature Height: 8–12 ft
Mature Width: 6–10 ft
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Soil Preference: Well-drained soil
Growth Rate: Moderate

Looking for Acer shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’ for sale? This full moon Japanese maple features brilliant orange spring growth,  summer foliage, and vibrant fall color, making it a standout focal point in any landscape.