Japanese maple

noun

1. a small, graceful maple tree, Acer palmatum, of Korea and Japan, having small, purple flowers, the foliage turning bright red in autumn.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Japanese maple¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

After the Martinezes moved in, they received a letter from one of the original owners’ sons regarding the property’s Japanese maple trees.

From Los Angeles Times

The cloaked trees have created a mysterious and striking effect across the city and its suburbs, with purple and green leaves of Japanese maples or elms barely visible behind translucent tulle.

From New York Times

Finely cut leaves of Japanese maples dangled spangling drops.

From Seattle Times

Arizona ash, Japanese maples and Washington hawthorn trees offer more color along this route.

From Seattle Times

Small, deciduous trees and shrubs, such as the contorted hazelnut or a lacy Japanese maple, live happily in containers for years and look lovely in springtime surrounded by crocus and then tulips.

From Seattle Times