Happy New Year from Sooner!

Shipping resumes on January 19th, 2026.

Shop Smarter. Shop Sooner.®

UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE

Image property of and used with permission from Spring Meadow Nursery Image property of and used with permission from Spring Meadow Nursery

View Image Disclaimer

Know Your Zone

Enter your zip code to look up your hardiness zone region.

#6806

UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE

Acer palmatum 'SMNAPK'
PPAF Plant propagation prohibited

Currently Unavailable

×

These Units Are Currently Ready to Ship

These items can be added to your Shopping Cart.

×

These Units Are Currently Out of Stock

Check back regularly for updated inventory.

×

These Units Are Currently Growing On Our Farm

We are waiting for them to become ready to ship. These items can be added to your Shopping Cart.

Orders containing Online Pre-Order items will be scheduled to ship based on projected ready dates.

×

These Units Are Currently In Production

These items are currently in production and do not have a projected ready date at this time. These items cannot be added to your Shopping Cart.

Please call to pre-order (918) 453-0771.

Root Pouch 5 gallon (SKU: 20216)
0 - Available Now - Details   -   Grown in Root Pouch®.

List Price $195.00 Per Plant

Proven Winners® Color Choice® Plant Collection

Hardiness Zone: 5-8   ·   Mature Height: 10-15 Feet   ·   Mature Spread: 10-12 Feet

Uncommon Thread™ Japanese Maple takes everything people adore about Acer palmatum and turns the dial up a notch. Think of it as the classic Japanese maple's spirited younger cousin—full of elegance, but with a touch more confidence and verve. Its finely cut leaves emerge in spring as a fresh, lively green kissed with hints of orange, giving it an early-season glow that instantly elevates any garden space. As the tree settles into summer, that same foliage deepens to a richer green, creating a calm, cooling effect that's as beautiful in a courtyard as it is along a woodland edge.

What truly makes Uncommon Thread™ Japanese Maple stand out, however, is its own-root vigor—meaning this isn't your typical grafted maple. It grows with a natural strength, consistency, and resilience that translates to fewer issues, smoother establishment, and a noticeably faster growth rate. As fall rolls in, the tree bursts into fiery tones of red, putting on a final performance that commands attention from anyone passing by. Its upright, balanced structure helps it maintain a graceful silhouette throughout the seasons, even when the leaves drop and the sculptural branches take center stage.

Versatility is one of this cultivar's secret superpowers. Reaching a comfortable medium size of about 10–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide, it fits beautifully into tight urban gardens, mixed borders, foundation plantings, and Japanese-inspired landscapes. Whether you want a specimen that stops guests in their tracks, a partner for shade-loving perennials, or a tree that brings dynamic seasonal interest without demanding constant care, Uncommon Thread™ Japanese Maple rises to the occasion. Gorgeous, adaptable, and bursting with personality—it's an exceptional addition to any garden looking for beauty that endures.

Family: Sapindaceae / Aceraceae · Common Name: Maple

FREE with every plant purchased:

  • The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
  • A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
  • Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
  • Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
  • Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

DIY Irrigation SuppliesWe use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

 

UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE Plant Characteristics

0 review(s) for UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE

Add a review for Acer UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE*

   You must be logged into your customer account to post a review for Acer palmatum 'SMNAPK'.

UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

  • Recommended Soil:
    • Rich, well-draining loam is ideal; amend heavy clay with compost and sharp sand for better drainage.
    • Maintain consistent moisture level—neither soggy nor bone-dry.

  • Sun Exposure:
    • Best in part-sun to part-shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal in hotter climates.
    • In cooler zones full sun is acceptable, but avoid harsh afternoon rays in warmer regions to prevent leaf scorch.

  • Irrigation Needs:
    • Water regularly during establishment (first 1–2 years) until roots are developed.
    • After that, maintain moderate moisture—during dry spells increase frequency.
    • Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate root temperature.

  • Feeding & Nutrients:
    • In early spring apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer when new growth begins.
    • Mid-summer a light top-dressing of compost is beneficial.
    • Avoid high nitrogen feeds late in the season to encourage fall color.

  • Pruning & Maintenance:
    • Prune in late winter/early spring while the tree is dormant. Remove any dead or crossing branches.
    • Minimal pruning is required—let the natural shape shine.
    • Monitor for pests and fungal issues; keep leaf-litter cleared in autumn for best health and appearance.

Interesting Notes About UNCOMMON THREAD™ JAPANESE MAPLE

  • Color-Chameleon Foliage: The leaves of Uncommon Thread™ emerge in spring with green tinged by orange, shift to vibrant green in summer, then ignite into rich red in fall, delivering dramatic multi-season color.
  • Own-Root Powerhouse: Unlike many grafted maples, this cultivar is grown on its own roots for stronger vigor, better adaptation and long-term performance in the landscape.
  • Medium-Sized Star: With a mature size around 10-15 ft tall and 10-12 ft wide (in ideal conditions) it hits the sweet spot: large enough to make a statement, yet flexible enough for modest gardens.
  • Ancient Genus, Modern Twist: Acer palmatum (the species) has been cultivated in Japan for centuries for its refined form and foliage, and Uncommon Thread™ gives you that heritage with enhanced growth rate and garden versatility.
  • Fall Color Fever: Japanese maples are prized for their autumn display; this one doesn't disappoint, turning bold red when many trees are simply fading into brown, making it a go-to for landscape drama.