How to prune acer japonicum 'aconitifolium'

Fully dormant in late autumn to midwinter, or midsummer. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches by cutting cleanly back to a branch union or healthy outward-facing bud. If a more open, multi-stemmed silhouette is desired, selectively remove one or two of the most crowded stems at the base over several years — never remove more than 20% of the canopy in a single season.

Rarely — corrective pruning only as needed. Fullmoon maple 'Aconitifolium' develops an attractive multi-stemmed shrubby form and needs minimal pruning. Remove dead or damaged wood and any crossing branches. Its deeply cut foliage and layered branching are key ornamental features — avoid reshaping. Like all maples, prune during dormancy or midsummer to prevent excessive sap loss.

Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches by cutting cleanly back to a branch union or healthy outward-facing bud. If a more open, multi-stemmed silhouette is desired, selectively remove one or two of the most crowded stems at the base over several years — never remove more than 20% of the canopy in a single season.