Acer palmatum 'Oshu beni' Japanese Maple

'Oshu beni' displays deep burgundy foliage in early spring, transitioning to deep maroon with an emergent emerald center as summer progresses, before turning bright scarlet in autumn. This upright cultivar with rounded, tufted leaflets reaches 10-12 feet tall over 15 years, making it suitable as a mid-sized specimen. According to the growers at Mr Maple, backlighting enhances the foliage's warm tones dramatically; viewing the canopy from underneath reveals a glowing effect as sunlight passes through the red and golden leaves. The emerald cast that emerges in early summer adds particular visual interest and pairs well in the landscape with contrasting forms such as weeping or chartreuse cultivars.