Yes, that's what the leaves look like when they are just starting break bud. Hopefully Gardengal will answer in more detail. She is extremely knowledgeable (as are several others.)

Thanks Gibson. It's the drooping leaves that has me the most worried, but if you say it's normal, then I'm happy.

They're just opening up- it takes a few days for them to lift and assume their eventual shape.

I will just confirm what has already been said - they look perfectly fine!! When the leaves first emerge in spring, they will initially appear with that drooping, almost wilted appearance. But gave them a few days and they will perk up, fill out and look like they should for the rest of the season.

FWIW, JM's are often grown in hot, dry climates here in the US as well. Not necessarily an optimum setting but manageable. Make sure they receive some shade during the hottest part of the day and water frequently but deeply as needed. The katsura (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) would appreciate similar treatment. If both are being grown on in a container for any length of time, be sure not to let the containers dry out. Both young trees can go down hill very rapidly in a dry container. But also do not overly saturate the soil.........it's a bit of a fine line :-))

"it's a bit of a fine line :-))

I can attest to that. I grow a lot of both and get caught every year on some. Usually they don't die, but the Fall color has a lot of brown. :-(

Thanks everyone for your assurance. It gets to about 37C here in summer which I believe is around 100F. So both of these trees are going to be a challenge but I see how I go. I'll continue to post updates and ask for advice as I go.

Miketann can you tell me when I could expect some action on the Katsura?

Thanks Mike

Paul, i'm in western sydney with similar summer heat.

If you have it potted, just keep it in shade on those 35C + days.

And yes the leaves are perfectly normal. Some of mine are less developed than yours, just this morning leaves are starting to bud out.

In case you wanted to know here are some photos of my maple 5 months later