Acer palmatum 'Mila' Japanese Maple

The Acer palmatum ‘Mila’ is an exceptional and highly sought-after upright Japanese Maple, introduced by renowned Dutch maple breeder Dick van der Maat. Celebrated for its intense and constantly evolving colour, ‘Mila’ is a true collector’s cultivar that delivers interest from the moment its leaves emerge in spring through to its spectacular autumn display.

In early spring, ‘Mila’ bursts into growth with striking shades of pastel pink, coral-red, and soft orange, often with warmer orange tones developing towards the centre of the leaf. As the foliage matures, its colour deepens and evolves, creating a beautiful mixture of contrasting tones across the tree.

One of ‘Mila’s most impressive characteristics is its summer colour. While many Japanese Maples become predominantly green through the warmer months, ‘Mila’ continues producing vibrant new flushes of bright red, burgundy, and deep maroon, creating layers of colour between the mature and newly emerging foliage. In autumn, the tree finishes the season with a brilliant display of fiery orange and vivid red.

With its upright, dense branching habit and vigorous growth, ‘Mila’ develops into an elegant small tree that works beautifully as a feature specimen in the garden or as part of a Japanese Maple collection. Its exceptional colour range and repeated seasonal flushes make it an outstanding choice for collectors looking for a cultivar that offers interest throughout the growing season.

Care Information:

Climate Adaptability: Thrives in temperate climates and performs well in many South African regions with moderate conditions. Protect from extreme afternoon heat, hot drying winds, and prolonged periods of intense summer sun to maintain the best foliage quality.

Sun Exposure: Prefers morning sun with afternoon shade or bright filtered light. Some direct sunlight helps develop its vibrant red and pink colouring, but protection from harsh afternoon sun is recommended in hotter climates.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained, particularly during hot weather and while the tree is establishing. Avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely, but never leave the plant standing in waterlogged soil.

Soil Type: Prefers slightly acidic, fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Good drainage is essential for maintaining a healthy root system.

Pruning: Requires minimal pruning. Remove damaged or crossing branches and lightly shape during winter dormancy if required. Its naturally upright and dense habit generally develops beautifully without extensive pruning.

Fertilisation: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins. Avoid excessive high-nitrogen feeding, which can encourage overly soft growth and reduce foliage quality.

Mature Size: Upright form reaching approximately 2.7-3.7 metres within 15 years, with mature specimens potentially reaching around 4 metres over time depending on growing conditions.