Acer p. 'Oregon Sunset' #1

Acer palmatum ‘Oregon Sunset’

A beautifully balanced mid-sized Japanese maple, ‘Oregon Sunset’ begins the season with large rounded plum-colored leaves in early spring that add rich tone and texture to the garden. As the season progresses those leaves remain attractively colored with lateral yet slightly upright branching that creates an open, spreading canopy — a form that feels generous without overwhelming smaller spaces. In its first two decades, it typically reaches around 7' tall with a spreading 10' width, making it a perfect choice for compact landscapes, cottage settings, or as a colorful accent in mixed borders.

One of this cultivar’s signature seasons is fall, when the foliage explodes into brilliant shades of orange and red — hues reminiscent of a Pacific Northwest sunset, which inspired the name. This seasonal shift delivers a showstopping finale before leaf drop. For best leaf quality and color retention, plant in part shade to protect from the hot afternoon sun while still allowing bright morning light to energize the foliage. With regular water and rich, well-drained soil, ‘Oregon Sunset’ combines dependable structure with vivid seasonal color that continues to attract admirers year after year.

Why We Love It: Classic red tones that hold well across seasons and a spreading habit that works beautifully in small gardens or as a centerpiece specimen — a reliable choice for color lovers.