Cold Tolerances
They not only survive frosts and freezes, prolonged subfreezing temperatures aren't harmful as long as sap doesn't flow. Acer palmatum survives temperatures down to minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit -- USDA zone 6 -- while Acer japonicum tolerates temperatures down to minus 20 degrees -- USDA zone 5.
Can Acers survive frost?
Acers are slow growing deciduous trees/shrubs, and most cultivars are fully winter hardy, however late spring frosts can cause severe damage to emerging foliage.
What does frost damage on an Acer look like?
Identifying Freeze Damage
Freeze damage appears on Japanese maples as a shriveling and browning or blackening of foliage, says the Davey Tree Experts. Leaves may eventually drop from the tree and branch dieback can also occur.
