I'd like to grow a japanese maple in a large container, max height to about 8 feet, with great color all four seasons. Any suggestions?

I have an Orangeola, mature container height is supposed to be 6-8 feet. First photo is from the week I received it in March 2011 as a 2-foot twig. The last photograph is from last month. There is no Winter color, but the other three seasons are beautiful.

there are so many trees that are possible - what leaf type are you looking for?

btw - WA state would provide better fall color with orangeola than TX. mine here in the NE has nice color. although planted in the ground.

Try Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' a stunning small and most colourful Acer.
Regards from England.
Neil.

Ya, your choices are pretty wide open - there are about as many varieties as you can image. Try narrowing it down some by leaf-type and/or spring/fall color you'd like.