Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple Tree

Name: Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple Tree
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 20129
Price: 184.65 USD
Availability: InStock

Acer palmatum 'Tsuma Gaki'

Nature Hills Nursery

$184⁶⁵

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In Stock

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Find your Growing Zone

Plant Size

#3 Container 2-3 Feet

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This maple thrives in dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. While it can handle 4 to 6 hours of direct sun, midday protection prevents the delicate leaf tips from scorching and preserves the vibrant red "fingernails" on the new growth.
Soil: Aim for well drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a raised mound to keep the roots above the "bathtub effect" where water collects, or mix in compost to improve drainage.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, water your Tsuma Gaki deeply twice a week to ensure the root system establishes properly. Once mature, this tree is relatively self-sufficient but requires supplemental soaking during summer dry spells to prevent leaf curl and crispy edges. Inconsistent moisture levels can lead to stress, which often results in premature leaf drop or a lack of vibrant fall color.

Pruning Tips

Since Japanese Maples bloom on old wood and are prized for their natural shape, pruning should be kept to a minimum. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant to avoid "bleeding" sap. Focus on removing the three Ds: dead, damaged, or diseased branches to open up the canopy and improve air circulation, which acts like a breath of fresh air for the tree's interior.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer or a specialized acid-loving plant food in early spring before the new leaves emerge. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because they encourage tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. This late season growth is very susceptible to winter kill, which can damage the overall structure of your tree.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

This Japanese Maple Tree is full of fall colors such as red-purple, yellow, and bronze. And who doesn't love fall colors?

The Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple Tree (Acer palmatum 'Tsuma Gaki') has lobes that are yellow-green that transition out to red at the tips for a lovely two-tone effect! The lobes appear as if they just got done with a relaxing manicure!

In the summer the leaves turn green before they eventually take on a ravishing red and yellow coloration in the fall. Throughout the year this deciduous tree gives off a variety of colors that always give you something to look forward to!

On top of the natural beauty of the foliage, they also produce petite reddish-purple flowers that bloom in the middle of spring. Although these flowers are noticeable from a distance, they are quite adorable close-up! The bees certainly will appreciate them each spring!

Landscape Application:

Japanese Maple Trees have such a unique size and shape, growing 6 - 9 feet tall and spreading just 4 - 5 feet in width, which makes Tsuma Gaki a fantastic specimen plant. They thrive to be the center of attention and are the perfect addition to any landscape or even large planter!

The Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple has a rounded shape which creates a pretty focal point among your bed and borders in the partial shade landscape or near the canopy of larger trees where it can bask in the filtered sun. Both front and backyards benefit from these showy ornamental trees!

Yellow-Green Lobes Transition To Red Tips
Red & Yellow Coloration in the Fall
Produce Petite Reddish-Purple Flowers
Upright Oval Canopy
Fantastic Specimen Plant, Accents & Great In Large Containers

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Plant Japanese Maples in full sun in cooler climates, but in partial, filtered, or afternoon shade locations in hotter growing zones 5 to 9 to prevent the delicate leaves from burning. Maples need a well-drained soil location with regular moisture access and a 3-4 inch deep layer of mulch around the roots. Not only does the mulch look great, but it helps keep even moisture as well as protect your maple against pesky diseases and pests. Prune in the late winter to shore up any broken or unruly branches.

Performs in Full Sun or Part Shade
Well-Drained Soil
Moderate Regular Moisture
Prune When Dormant
Cold-Hardy, Versatile & Adaptable

Brighten your landscaping up today with the array of fall colors that the Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple Tree has to offer! Order now at NatureHills.com today!

Botanical Name

Acer palmatum 'Tsuma Gaki'
Class
- Magnoliopsida
Species

palmatum
Cultivar

Tsuma Gaki
Growing Zones

5-9
Height

6-9 ft
Width

4-5 ft
Sunlight
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Growth Rate

Moderate
Flower Color
- Red
Leaf Color
- Green
- Yellow
- Orange
- Red
Fall Color

Red, Orange
Bloom Period

Late Spring
Does Not Ship To

AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 5-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple be grown in zone 5, or is it only for warmer zones?

Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple grows well in zones 5-9. In zone 5, plant it in full sun since the cooler climate protects the delicate leaves from burning. Provide well-drained soil with regular moisture and 3-4 inches of mulch around the roots.

What are the sunlight requirements for Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple—full sun or partial shade?

Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple needs full sun in cooler climates but partial or filtered shade in hotter zones 5-9. The delicate leaves can burn in intense afternoon sun in warmer regions. Plant where it gets morning sun with afternoon protection for best results.

When and how should I fertilize Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple?

Fertilize Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple in early spring before new growth emerges. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost around the root zone. Apply annually in zones 5-9, keeping fertilizer 6 inches from the trunk to prevent root burn.

Is Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple wind-tolerant, or does it need protection from wind?

Japanese Maples like Tsuma Gaki have delicate foliage that can be damaged by strong winds. Their compact 6-9 foot size makes them somewhat vulnerable to wind stress, especially during leaf-out in spring. Plant in a sheltered location or provide windbreak protection from prevailing winds.

How do I prune Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple to maintain its shape?

Prune Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple in late fall or winter when dormant to maintain its natural rounded shape. Remove only dead, crossing, or inward-growing branches, as this variety naturally forms an attractive 6-9 foot upright oval canopy. Shop quality specimens at naturehills.com.

Will Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple thrive in a container or pot?

Yes, Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple works beautifully in large containers due to its compact 6-9 foot height and 4-5 foot spread. Its rounded shape creates an excellent focal point specimen. Choose a substantial planter and provide partial shade in zones 5-9 to protect the delicate foliage.

How is Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple shipped, and what size do plants typically come in?

Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maples typically ship as young nursery-grown plants in containers, ready for planting in zones 5-9. These compact trees will mature to 6-9 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. Plant in partial shade locations with well-drained soil and consistent moisture for best establishment.

Is Tsuma Gaki Japanese Maple deer-resistant or prone to pests and diseases?

Japanese Maples are generally deer-resistant due to their bitter taste, though hungry deer may browse young growth. They're relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects in zones 5-9. Proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering helps prevent fungal issues on the delicate foliage.