Acer japonicum 'Yama kage' Mountain Shadows Full Moon Japanese Maple

'Yama kage' is an Acer japonicum selection prized for exceptionally large leaves that emerge bright green with a subtle spring blush before transitioning to a rich summer green, then delivering consistent autumn color in yellows, oranges, and reds. The leaves are lobed rather than perfectly round, distinguishing it from a true full moon type, with the lobing becoming more pronounced in fall. This cultivar develops an upright, spreading habit and is a vigorous grower, reaching 10-12 feet within ten years. According to Gardening With Maples, the tree performs best in high shade where leaf size maximizes (reportedly hand-sized), though it tolerates sun and shows reliable fall coloring year to year, an advantage over the temperature-dependent Acer palmatum, making it suitable for woodland understory or landscape positions in USDA zones 5-9.