Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple

Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi')

Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi') is a bold, upright tree valued for deep wine red spring foliage that matures to dark burgundy and finishes brilliant scarlet in fall; broad, palmately lobed leaves and a well branched, vase shaped canopy create striking color and structure for lawns, entries, and mixed borders.

Distinctive Features

Dark, nearly black red tones in spring give dramatic contrast that holds well with good light; strong branching and large leaves provide a sculptural presence and a reliable autumn show.

Growing Conditions

Plant in fertile, well drained soil with steady moisture; morning sun with afternoon protection in hotter regions preserves leaf edges and summer color.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color with several hours of morning sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist during active growth and heat.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 15 to 20 ft tall and 12 to 15 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

Its saturated color and expansive leaves make it a natural anchor for four season interest.

• Focal Point: Dark spring foliage and scarlet fall display command attention.
• Lawn Specimen: Broad canopy offers dappled shade and strong silhouette.
• Entry Accent: Vased form frames paths and architecture.
• Mixed Border: Contrasts powerfully with conifers and gold or blue green plants.
• Woodland Edge: Shines in morning sun with filtered afternoon light.

Low Maintenance Care

Consistent moisture and light structural pruning keep the canopy full and the leaves clean.

• Watering: Deep soak weekly in dry spells to maintain even moisture.
• Pruning: Thin lightly in late winter to refine layers; avoid heavy summer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer in spring if growth is light.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer over roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind shelter and avoid compacted or waterlogged soils.

Why Choose Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple?

Choose this cultivar for saturated, season long color and a stately form that reads from a distance.

• Intense Pigmentation: Nearly black red spring leaves with a vivid fall finale.
• Architectural Habit: Upright, vase shaped canopy with balanced branching.
• Design Versatility: Works in lawns, entries, and large borders.
• Reliable Performer: Consistent color with straightforward care.
• Lasting Impact: Bold foliage and structure provide year round presence.

Site where morning light can illuminate the dark spring foliage and emphasize the tree's layered framework.