Acer palmatum ‘Red Dragon’ (Laceleaf Japanese Maple)

Noted for keeping its rich purple-red foliage color better than any other Laceleaf Japanese Maples, Acer palmatum ‘Red Dragon’ is a compact, slow-growing deciduous shrub with elegant dissected leaves reminiscent of a dragon’s claws. Emerging bright scarlet red in spring, the delicate foliage of ferny, lace-like leaves matures to dark burgundy in summer before finally changing to a spectacular crimson red in fall. Well-branched, this Japanese Maple features an upright-pendulous habit and forms an elegant cascading mound. It is perfect for small gardens or containers. ‘Red Dragon’ prefers full sun and tolerates frost but needs protection from cold winds and summer drought.

• Grows up to 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240).
• 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.