Trees

Maple, Japanese Red Acer palmatum atropurpureum

A very showy, versatile species. Use as a single specimen or in borders or groupings. Can be a single-stemmed small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. Leaves are reddish-purple in spring and again in fall. Grows to 15' to 25', 20' spread. (zones 5-8)

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Zones 5 - 8
Zones 5 - 8

Hardiness Zones: Zones 5 - 8
The Japanese Red Maple can be expected to grow in the zones shown in color in the arborday.org zone map. VIEW MAP

Ornamental Tree
Ornamental Tree

Type of tree:
The Japanese Red Maple falls into the following type(s): Ornamental Trees

15' - 25' High
15' - 25' High

Mature Height:
The Japanese Red Maple grows to be 15' - 25' feet in height.

20' Spread
20' Spread

Mature Spread:
The Japanese Red Maple has a spread of about 20' at full maturity.

Slow to Medium Growth
Slow to Medium Growth

Growth Rate:
This tree grows at a slow to medium growth rate. [More about this.]

Partial Shade
Partial Shade

Sun:
This maple does well in partial shade, full shade.

Various Soils
Various Soils

Soil:
The Japanese Red Maple grows in acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, well drained, clay soils.

Rounded Shape
Rounded Shape

Shape:
This maple has rounded, vase shape.

More Info
More Info

Attributes:
The Japanese Red Maple adds a touch of unequaled beauty to any home or landscape. Of the numerous Japanese Maple species and hundreds of cultivars, it is one of the hardiest. It is also more upright in form than most others and features attractive red foliage, especially in spring and fall.

Description:
A very showy, versatile species. Use as a single specimen or in borders or groupings. Can be a single-stemmed small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. Leaves are reddish-purple in spring and again in fall. Grows to 15' to 25', 20' spread. (zones 5-8)

Wildlife Value:
Squirrels and chipmunks are very fond of maple seeds. The seeds, buds, and flowers are also eaten by grouse, quail and many songbirds.

History/Lore/Use:
The Japanese word "momiji" is sometimes applied to this tree in its native land. The word is said to have two meanings, both of them appropriate for the description of this wonderful tree: "baby's hands" and " becomes crimson leaves." Japanese Red Maple is a tree that has been cultured intensively for over 300 years and retains a special place in the heart of all who love exotic trees.

Moisture:
Some drought resistance. Prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Leaves:
The leaves of this tree has 5 or 7 lobes spread symmetrically from a central point like finger from the palm of a hand.

Flower Color:
Red to purple, not vivid, contrasts well with green leaves.

Bloom Time:
May-June.

Fruit Description:
Samara, 1/2 to 1 inch long, wings 1/4 to 3/8 inches long.