A well-known Japanese maple cultivar with unusual coral pink young stems that create a striking effect, especially in winter. These stems and the superb yellow to apricot coloured autumn foliage makes it an elegant tree ideal for protected areas of gardens.

Light green, five lobed (occasionally seven to nine) flat leaves with red petioles (the stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the stem). The lopes are rounded and taped to a sharp point and have a doubly serrated margin. The autumn colours are brilliant with an apricot- yellow tinge.

The young stems are bright coral pink to red which intensifies and becomes more obvious in the dormant period. Older branches gradually become grey-brown with attractive green striations.

Adaptable to a range of soil types, but best grown in a moist well rained soil. Prefers semi-shade but grows well in full sun if sheltered. Should not be planted in exposed areas, where hot summer wind may stress the tree, and leaves may suffer scorch in very hot sun. Grows to about 6 x 5 metres at 20 years with a vase shaped habit and multi-stemmed small tree.

Also known as Acer Palmatum Sango Kaku.