Japanese Maple ‘Starfish’ (Acer Palmatum ‘Starfish’) – Unique Curled Leaf Maple | Sculptural Collector Tree

Add a truly distinctive focal point to your garden with Acer palmatum 'Starfish' – an extraordinary Japanese maple prized for its thick, curled leaves and sculptural, almost three-dimensional appearance.

Unlike classic flat-leaved maples, ‘Starfish’ forms deeply cupped, twisted foliage, giving the tree a bold, architectural character that stands out in any collection.

Key Features

Unique curled and cupped leaf shape (“starfish-like”)
Deep red to burgundy foliage throughout the season
Thick, textured leaves with strong visual impact
Rare and highly collectible Japanese maple
Compact and structured growth habit

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: rich red leaf emergence with curled form
Summer: deep burgundy foliage with strong texture
Autumn: vibrant crimson to scarlet tones
Note: primarily grown for its extraordinary foliage

Plant Size (Offered for Sale)

Well-developed, compact specimen
Height: approx. 120 cm (including pot)
Width: approx. 80 cm

General Growth Info

Mature height: approx. 2–3 m
Width: approx. 1.5–2 m
Growth rate: slow to moderate
Growth habit: upright, compact, structured

Ideal Uses

Perfect collector specimen for unique plant displays
Ideal for Japanese-style and modern gardens
Excellent feature plant for terraces and patios
Works beautifully in containers
Creates strong contrast with fine-leaved or light plants

Care & Growing Conditions

Prefers a bright, sheltered location (sun to light semi-shade)
Avoid extreme midday sun in very hot climates
Soil: well-drained, humus-rich
Watering: regular, do not allow to dry out completely
Low maintenance once established
Hardy in the ground; protect young or potted plants in winter

A true conversation piece – ‘Starfish’ combines botanical curiosity with refined elegance, making it one of the most unusual Japanese maples available.

You receive the plant in the described size, carefully selected.

Now available at TOMs FLOWer CLUB – a rare and sculptural Japanese maple for collectors and design-focused gardens.