Acer japonicum X 'Gossamer' Dwarf Full Moon Japanese Maple

'Gossamer' is an extremely dwarf, slow-growing Acer japonicum selection distinguished by exceptionally fine, lacey foliage more finely dissected than typical full moon maples. Leaves emerge silvery-green in spring and mature to a rich green, before turning a vivid, uniform bright red in fall, a trait particularly valuable in warm climates where consistent fall color is rare among japonicums. The plant develops a gently weeping habit and reaches approximately 3-4 feet tall and wide in ten years, making it well-suited to containers and small garden spaces. According to Mr Maple, this cultivar originated as a chance seedling discovered by Billy Schwarz at Red Maple Nursery in Lima, Pennsylvania, beneath a large-leafed Acer japonicum; Schwarz suspected it to be a hybrid with a laceleaf Japanese maple due to its unusually intricate leaf texture and extremely slow growth. The tree tolerates full sun to part shade but produces larger leaves with morning shade; it performs best with consistent moisture and protection from intense afternoon heat in zones 9 and warmer, and is hardy to zone 5 (zones 5-9).