Acer nipponicum is a deciduous shade tree native to the mountainous forests of Japan in the maple family (Sapindaceae). Growing 20 to 65 feet tall with a similar spread, it is a large tree by any measure, and its ability to perform in heavy shade distinguishes it from most other maples, which prefer more light. The new growth emerges with a warm copper-bronze tone before maturing to green, and moths visit the spring flowers as reliably as with other species in the genus.

It prefers moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in zones 6 to 8, and is content in the dappled light of a woodland garden or under the canopy of larger trees. For gardeners establishing a woodland garden who need something with genuine tree stature that will perform in significant shade, Nippon Maple fills a niche that few other maples can. Not widely available, but specialist nurseries that stock it find it generates sustained interest from serious gardeners.