Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'

Japanese Red Maple

Botanical Name: Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Japan, Korea
Plant Type: Deciduous small tree

Overview

A stunning deciduous maple prized for its deep burgundy-red foliage that emerges bright red in spring and develops into rich crimson-purple tones through summer. This graceful small tree offers exceptional autumn colour with brilliant scarlet-orange leaf display, making it one of the most sought-after ornamental maples. Its elegant vase-shaped form and four-season interest make it perfect as a feature specimen or focal point.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 4-5 m H x 3-4 m W
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; 15–25 cm per year; upright vase-shaped habit with graceful branching
• Foliage: Deeply lobed palmate leaves, deep burgundy-red in spring, maturing to rich purple-red through summer
• Flowers: Small purple-red flowers in clusters, spring, non-fragrant
• Seasonal Interest: Brilliant scarlet-orange autumn colour before leaf drop, attractive winter branching structure
• Wildlife Value: Seeds attract small birds, flowers provide nectar for beneficial insects
• Tolerance: Moderate frost hardy to -8°C, wind-tolerant when established, clay-tolerant with good drainage
• Planting Density: Feature specimen: 4-5 m apart; grove planting: 3-4 m apart; courtyard gardens: 2.5-3 m apart
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to dogs and cats, safe for family gardens

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Part shade to dappled sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates
• Soil: Well-drained, moisture-retentive soil; thrives in rich loam with organic matter
• Water Needs: Establishment: 12-18 weeks, twice weekly deep watering. Established: Summer 1-2 times weekly; Winter monthly
• Maintenance: Low maintenance; light pruning in late winter to maintain shape, mulch around root zone
• Lifespan: 50-80 years
• Climate Zones: Adelaide Hills, cooler temperate areas, protected positions in Mediterranean zones
• Soil pH: Slightly acid to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0) for best colour development

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Create a stunning feature specimen in Japanese or contemporary gardens with underplanting of hostas and ferns
• Plant in large containers on patios or courtyards where space is limited but maximum impact is desired
• Use as a focal point near outdoor entertaining areas where seasonal colour changes can be appreciated year-round

Why You Will Love It

Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' transforms your garden into a living artwork with its incredible colour palette that shifts through the seasons. This is the maple that garden designers reach for when they want guaranteed impact – from the fresh burgundy spring growth through to the breathtaking autumn fireworks display that will have your neighbours stopping to admire your garden.