Acer palmatum ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ – Compact Red Japanese Maple for Small Gardens
Acer palmatum ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ is a compact and refined Japanese maple, valued for its rich red foliage and naturally dense, upright growth. The finely cut leaves emerge a vivid crimson in spring, deepening to a strong burgundy-red through summer, holding their colour better than many similar compact varieties, before turning bright scarlet in autumn.
Its naturally bushy, upright habit sets it apart from more open-growing forms, creating a fuller, more structured appearance that works particularly well in smaller gardens or where space is limited. Over time, it forms a neat, rounded shrub or small tree, making it ideal for feature planting in borders or as a statement specimen in containers.
The dense foliage provides strong visual impact, while still retaining the delicate texture typical of Japanese maples. Its compact nature also makes it easier to position and manage, without sacrificing the rich colour and elegance associated with larger varieties.
Best grown in a sheltered position with partial shade, ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ thrives in moist, well-drained soil and benefits from protection against strong winds and harsh sun.
Compact, colourful, and easy to manage, Acer ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ is an excellent choice for adding bold foliage colour to smaller garden spaces.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Bright crimson foliage emerges.
Summer: Deep burgundy-red tones hold well.
Autumn: Brilliant scarlet display.
Winter: Compact branching provides structure.
Key Features
Compact growth – Ideal for small gardens.
Rich red foliage – Strong, lasting colour.
Bushy habit – Dense, upright form.
Seasonal interest – Colour from spring to autumn.
Low maintenance – Minimal pruning required.
Perfect For
Small gardens – Compact and manageable.
Containers – Ideal for patios and courtyards.
Feature planting – Strong focal point in limited space.
Borders – Adds structure and colour.
Japanese-style gardens – Classic ornamental choice.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Partial shade; tolerates some sun with shelter.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK.
Care: Minimal pruning; maintain shape if required.
Looks Great With
Grasses – Hakonechloa, Carex.
Evergreens – Ilex, Taxus, compact conifers.
Shade planting – Ferns, Hostas, Heuchera.
Contrasting foliage – Lime-green or golden shrubs for contrast.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.