Ice Dragon Maple

Ice Dragon Maple (Acer x pseudosieboldianum 'Ice Dragon')

Ice Dragon Maple (Acer x pseudosieboldianum 'Ice Dragon') is a cold-hardy, Japanese maple style ornamental tree known for finely cut foliage, a graceful compact form, and a fall color show that can turn vivid orange to deep red. It brings the layered texture and refined look people want from a Japanese maple, but with improved toughness for colder winters and more variable conditions. Through summer, the canopy stays a clean green with an airy, lacy appearance that softens hard lines in the landscape. When autumn arrives, the color shift is bold and memorable, making Ice Dragon an easy focal point for entry gardens, patios, and mixed borders.

Distinctive Features

The foliage is deeply lobed and delicate in texture, creating a light canopy that feels high-end and design-forward even in small spaces. Branching tends to be attractive and layered, adding a sculptural silhouette in winter and early spring. Fall color is a major highlight, often developing strong warm tones that stand out against evergreens and late-season plantings. Because it is bred for improved cold tolerance, it is a strong option when you want Japanese maple style detail but need a tree that handles winter with more confidence.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; afternoon shade is helpful in hotter sites, while more sun improves fall color.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, organic-rich soil; slightly acidic to neutral is ideal.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment and water during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7.
• Habit: Deciduous small tree with a rounded to vase-shaped habit and refined branching.
• Mature Size: About 10 to 15 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a specimen where fine foliage texture and fall color can take center stage.
• Front Yard and Entry Planting: Add a refined, garden-forward look near doors, walkways, and windows.
• Courtyard and Small Gardens: Fits tight spaces where you want an ornamental tree without overwhelming the design.
• Mixed Border Accent: Anchor a layered planting with a light canopy that pairs well with shrubs and perennials.
• Evergreen Contrast Planting: Pair with dark conifers or hedges to make the fall color glow even more.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during the first one to two seasons; consistent moisture helps establish a strong root system.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch mulch layer over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter to remove crossing branches and refine structure; avoid heavy pruning.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring if growth is slow; rich soil and mulch often provide enough support.
• Site Selection: Shelter from harsh wind and avoid droughty, compacted sites to keep foliage looking clean through summer.

Why Choose Ice Dragon Maple?

• Cold-Hardy Japanese Maple Style: Delivers refined, deeply cut foliage with improved winter tolerance.
• Vivid Fall Color: Finishes the season with strong orange to red tones that add memorable seasonal impact.
• Compact Landscape Fit: Provides a high-end ornamental tree look without taking over the space.
• Elegant Form: Attractive branching and a graceful canopy create year-round design value.
• Easy Focal Point Value: Adds texture, structure, and seasonal change with straightforward care.

If you want Japanese maple style texture with improved cold hardiness and a bold fall display, Ice Dragon Maple delivers refined foliage, seasonal color, and focal point presence in a landscape-friendly form.