Japanese maples have a multitude of attributes that make them perfect trees for shady landscapes. Some varieties boast eye-catching spring color, while others are bedecked with a riot of hues in fall.

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. While most varieties of Japanese maples grow only 6 to 12 inches a year, pruning helps maintain their shape and keep them healthy.

A large Japanese maple tree with fall foliage in a landscaped backyard. - 4nadia/Getty Images You only have to look at a Japanese maple to know why these trees are such popular additions to a garden.

Prune Japanese maples in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and shape the tree. Stick to the tree’s natural form and avoid over-pruning to maintain health and balanced structure. Light ...

Keep your Japanese maple looking bright and beautiful through the hottest part of summer by doing these simple tasks now.

Pruning can still be done. Contrary to popular belief, pruning can be done year-round. Light, judicious pruning in the fall does not kill plants and is often needed to control straggly and overgrown ...

Just a few cuts can maintain their natural beauty. Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) aren’t going to provide shade over your backyard patio, but these ornamental trees can be the focal point of your ...