Leaf Identification

The leaves of the Full Moon Maple have an unique leaf shape. It is almost orbicular but with 7 to 9 shallow lobes. They are about 2″ to 3″ long and 2″ to 5″ wide, and the whole leaf and petiole is smooth (glabrous). It has serrated margins and palmate venation. The leaves are usually dark green. The fall colors range from different shades of orange, red, and purple. It has an opposite arrangement (petioles oppose each other on the stem).

Twig and Bud Identification

The twigs of the Full Moon Maple are glabrous and can be a green to red color. The buds are also glabrous and are usually green or red.

Bark Identification

The Full Moon Maple’s bark is smooth and light gray.

Fruit Identification

The fruit of the Full Moon Maple starts out as a bright red double samara (seed covered by papery “wing”, here in pairs) that matures to brown.

Flower Identification

The Full Moon Maple’s flowers are a crimson-red color and form upright clusters. The flowers bloom in mid-spring.

‘Autumn Moon’ Identification

The ‘Autumn Moon’ variety is known for its extra colorful leaves in summer and fall, and is slightly smaller than wild-type Full Moon Maples.