Acer japonicum 'Mai kujaku' Dancing Peacock Japanese Maple

Acer japonicum 'Mai kujaku' is an upright, multi-stemmed japonicum cultivar reaching approximately 15 feet tall over 20 years. The foliage is notably large with deeply lobed, fern-like leaflets that emerge chartreuse-green in spring, accompanied by conspicuous deep red tassel flowers that stand out prominently against the new growth. Throughout summer, leaves maintain deep green coloration before transforming in autumn through striking combinations of red, orange, and yellow, often on the same leaf, creating the layered, fan-like effect that inspired its common name. The cultivar's thicker, somewhat leathery foliage extends its fall display for up to two weeks longer than typical Japanese maples. According to the growers at Mr Maple, 'Mai kujaku' is one of their most popular acer japonicum selections, valued for its exceptional fall color and dynamic seasonal presence; the cultivar is occasionally offered under the older trade name 'Aconitifolium'. In warmer regions, afternoon shade encourages larger leaf size and enhances fall coloration, though in western North Carolina it performs well in full sun; newly established plants typically accelerate growth noticeably in their second or third year.