Japanese Maple ' Purple Ghost ' Grafted

Some maples are admired from across the yard. ‘Purple Ghost’ pulls you in close. The leaves look almost painted — deep plum to burgundy overlaid with dark veining that follows the leaf like ink brushed into rice paper. In spring the contrast is strongest: a luminous purple leaf with shadowed veins and translucent edges that glow when backlit by morning sun.

As summer heat settles, the color deepens to rich wine-red while the “ghosted” vein pattern remains visible. Come autumn, the tree finishes in scarlet and crimson tones. Even in the still heat of late July, it refuses to wash out the way many red maples do in the South.

This is a selection valued by collectors because it behaves as well as it looks. Upright but moderate, refined rather than sprawling, it makes a focal point without requiring a large property. The graft ensures the plant remains true to the original cultivar and develops a strong framework early in life.

Mature Size
8–12 ft. tall
6–8 ft. wide

Growth Rate
Moderate for a Japanese maple

Light Requirements
Morning sun, afternoon shade in warm climates
Handles filtered sun well; protect from hot western exposure

Soil
Well-drained soil rich in organic matter
Prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5)

Watering
Consistent moisture during establishment
Avoid wet, poorly drained locations

Cold Hardiness
USDA Zones 5–9

Landscape Uses

• Specimen focal tree

• Courtyard planting

• Accent near patios and walkways

• Woodland edge gardens

• Collector or feature planting

Minimal pruning required. Remove only dead or crossing branches in late winter. Japanese maples resent heavy shaping — they already know the form they are supposed to take.

Planted where afternoon light filters through, ‘Purple Ghost’ becomes less a tree and more a living piece of stained glass.