Acer palmatum ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ – Compact Red Japanese Maple for Strong Colour and Structure
Acer palmatum ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ is a compact and upright Japanese maple, prized for its rich red foliage and tidy growth habit. The finely cut leaves emerge a vibrant deep red in spring and hold their colour well through summer, especially when grown in a bright but sheltered position.
Unlike more spreading varieties, ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ grows in a more upright, columnar form, making it particularly useful for smaller gardens, narrow borders, or container planting where space is limited but impact is desired.
In autumn, the foliage intensifies to brilliant shades of crimson, creating a striking seasonal display. Its relatively slow growth and manageable size make it an excellent choice for adding colour and structure without overwhelming the space.
Best grown in partial shade and sheltered from strong winds and harsh sun, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Minimal pruning is required, allowing the plant to maintain its natural shape with ease.
Compact, colourful, and elegant, Acer ‘Skeeter’s Broom’ is an ideal choice for bringing refined structure and long-lasting colour to contemporary and traditional gardens alike.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Deep red foliage emerges fresh and vibrant.
Summer: Rich red leaves hold colour well.
Autumn: Brilliant crimson tones create strong impact.
Winter: Bare branches provide subtle structure.
Key Features
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Deep red foliage – Strong colour throughout the season.
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Compact upright habit – Ideal for smaller spaces.
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Excellent autumn colour – Bright crimson display.
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Low maintenance – Minimal pruning required.
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Architectural form – Adds structure and height.
Perfect For
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Small gardens – Compact and manageable.
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Containers – Ideal for patios and courtyards.
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Feature planting – Strong focal point.
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Japanese-style gardens – Elegant addition.
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Narrow borders – Upright growth suits tighter spaces.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Partial shade; protect from strong sun and wind.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil preferred.
Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK with shelter.
Care: Minimal pruning; remove dead or crossing branches if needed.
Looks Great With
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Grasses – Hakonechloa, Carex.
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Evergreens – Pinus, Ilex, small conifers.
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Shade planting – Ferns, Hostas, Heuchera.
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Water features – Enhances reflective planting.
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.
