Acer palmatum ‘Emperor I’ (Japanese Maple)

An outstanding cultivar of Japanese Maples, Acer palmatum ‘Emperor I’ is a small, upright, wide-crowned tree of great beauty in all seasons. The delicate foliage of large, 5-7 pointed, lobed leaves emerges deep purple-red in spring, holds its color throughout summer, and turns vibrant crimson-red in fall before shedding to the ground. As the leaves fall, they expose the blackish-red bark, adding interest to the winter landscape. Vigorous, this graceful maple tree stands out in the landscape and is suitable as a focal point or as the perfect foil for a mass of green in the landscape.

Often compared to the famous ‘Bloodgood’ cultivar, ‘Emperor I’ is noted for its longer leaf retention. Its leaves bud out about 2 weeks later in spring, thus reducing the risk of damage from late frosts. Moreover, it holds its fantastic color well in shade and is also more versatile.

• Grows up to 15 ft. tall and wide (450 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Best leaf color in partial shade, although full sun can be tolerated. A lack of soil moisture or excessive exposure can cause leaf scorch.
• Perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens and containers.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running. Fertilize in spring before the leaves emerge.
• Tolerant to black walnut (Juglans nigra)
• It may be affected by horse chestnut scale, aphids, and verticillium wilt.
• Propagate by grafting or softwood cuttings.
• Acer palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia.