Japanese Maple 'Red Dragon'

Scott's Nursery Ltd.

$89.99
Title

Unleash a burst of fiery elegance with the 'Red Dragon' Japanese Maple. This spectacular specimen features deeply filigreed, lace-like leaves that resemble the delicate claws of a dragon. Its journey begins in spring with a vibrant eruption of bright cherry-red foliage that matures into a regal, dark burgundy-maroon. Unlike many other varieties, 'Red Dragon' maintains its rich, dark tones even through the heat of summer before finishing the season with a breathtaking display of flaming scarlet and crimson.

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Size Guide

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Plant Details

Mature Size:

6–8' H x 6–8' W

Zone:

5-8

Watering:

Medium

Foliage Type:

Deciduous

Growth Rate:

Slow - Moderate

Light:

Full Sun/Partial Shade

Plant Profile

Common Names:

Red Dragon Japanese Maple, Laceleaf Japanese Maple, Cutleaf Japanese Maple, Threadleaf Japanese Maple

Scientific Name:

Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Red Dragon'

Type:

Ornamental / Deciduous Tree

Growth Details:

  • Mature Size: Typically reaches 6–8 feet tall and wide.
  • Growth Habit / Form: Weeping, compact, and mounding with gracefully cascading branches.
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
  • Longevity: Can live for many decades with proper care.

Environmental Needs:

  • Exposure: Prefers a sheltered location away from harsh, drying winds.
  • Soil Preferences: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic soil.
  • Soil Tolerance: Tolerant of various soil types if well-drained; can handle some clay but dislikes alkaline or salt-heavy soils.
  • Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during summer droughts to prevent leaf scorch.

Special Features:

Renowned for superior summer color retention; more sun-tolerant than many "dissectum" types; compact form makes it perfect for urban gardens.

Care Guide

Ornamental & Landscape Value

Seasonal Interest:

  • Bloom: Small, inconspicuous reddish-purple flowers in mid-spring.
  • Fall Colour: Outstanding flaming scarlet to bright crimson.
  • Bark: Rough gray bark provides subtle winter interest.
  • Fruit: Red winged samaras in early to mid-fall.

Garden Value:

An ideal focal point for small gardens, rock gardens, or near water features. Its compact, mounding form also makes it a superb choice for large patio containers and Zen-style gardens.

Wildlife & Human Value:

  • Wildlife: Provides cover for birds; flowers can attract early-season pollinators.
  • Human: High aesthetic value; ideal for creating a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere; adds significant curb appeal and landscape texture. 

Planting & Care Guide

Planting Considerations:

Best planted in spring or fall. Space approximately 8–10 feet apart to accommodate its spreading habit. Ensure the site is sheltered from strong north-western winter winds.

Care:

  • Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; it is more sun-tolerant than many other Japanese maples.
  • Moisture Requirements: Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil; do not allow the roots to dry out completely.
  • Maintenance / Fertilization: Low maintenance. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Tolerances:

Tolerant of rabbits and Black Walnut trees; somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.

Tips For Success:

Apply a thick layer of mulch around the root zone to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. If pruning is necessary for shape, do so during dormancy in late fall or winter to avoid excessive sap bleeding.

Fruit Profile