Types

• The Japanese maple tree, Acer palmatum, includes a large number of cultivars and varieties that grow to a number of different sizes. Determining the size limit of a Japanese maple tree will depend on the environment in which it is to be planted. Gardeners planning to grow a Japanese maple in a small backyard may wish to choose a different cultivar than an individual planting the tree in a larger space.
  
  

Size

• The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences reports that the common Japanese maple grows to a size of approximately 15 to 25 feet in height and canopy spread. Some varieties possess branches that droop to the ground and others achieve more manageable size limits for a Japanese maple tree by growing to an upright, vase-like shape.
  
  

Smaller Varieties

• Other types of Japanese maples grow to different size limits. The Bloodgood Japanese maple typically tops out at a height of 20 feet, while the Ever Red variety and Dissectum atropurpureum Japanese maples are smaller cultivars, normally reaching a size of 15 feet in height and canopy spread.