Ice Dragon Maple

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

Ice Dragon Maple (Acer � pseudosieboldianum 'Ice Dragon') is a remarkable cold-hardy hybrid that blends the delicate beauty of Japanese maples with the rugged durability of Korean species. Part of the Jack Frost� series, this small, elegant tree delivers finely dissected foliage, vibrant fall color, and reliable performance in climates too harsh for standard Japanese maples. Its refined structure and lacy texture make it a perfect focal point for four-season interest in northern gardens.

Distinctive Features

'Ice Dragon' leafs out in spring with soft green foliage tinged with orange and pink at the edges. The leaves mature to medium green through summer, then erupt into a vivid display of orange, red, and yellow in fall. Its deeply cut, thread-like leaves create a weeping, fern-like appearance, and its mature size�typically 8 to 10 feet tall and wide�makes it ideal for small garden spaces. Bare branches provide graceful structure in winter, often highlighted by snow or frost.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color in sites with morning sun and afternoon protection.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; slightly acidic to neutral pH preferred.
• Water: Moderate; consistent watering needed during establishment and in dry spells.
• Humidity: Adaptable; provide airflow to reduce the risk of foliar diseases.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9; exceptionally cold-hardy for a dissected-leaf maple.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Delicate texture and dramatic fall color make this tree a centerpiece in any landscape.
• Foundation Plantings: Low height and elegant form complement architectural lines.
• Asian-Inspired Gardens: A natural fit among stone, water, and bamboo elements.
• Woodland Borders: Enhances shade gardens and filtered light areas with soft movement and color.
• Four-Season Interest: Offers attractive foliage, form, and winter silhouette in all seasons.

Low Maintenance Care

Ice Dragon Maple is easy to care for with proper siting and minimal pruning. It combines ornamental beauty with resilience and adaptability.

• Watering: Maintain even soil moisture; avoid both waterlogging and prolonged drought.
• Pruning: Prune in winter to shape or remove dead/damaged wood; avoid summer pruning.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; minor fungal issues may occur in overly wet or stagnant areas.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in northern climates; no special protection needed down to Zone 4.

Why Choose Ice Dragon Maple?

Ice Dragon Maple is a standout selection for gardeners in colder zones who love the aesthetic of Japanese maples but need a tree that can handle winter with ease. It offers refined beauty, tough performance, and vivid seasonal transitions.

• Cold Hardy Elegance: Withstands freezing temperatures without sacrificing ornamental value.
• Lacy, Dissected Leaves: Provides a soft, refined texture from spring through fall.
• Brilliant Fall Display: Foliage ignites with bold oranges, reds, and yellows late in the season.
• Compact and Versatile: Fits perfectly into small landscapes, patios, and garden borders.
• Year-Round Interest: Delivers beauty through foliage, fall color, and winter branch structure.

For gardeners seeking a cold-hardy alternative to Japanese maples without compromising beauty, Ice Dragon Maple (Acer � pseudosieboldianum 'Ice Dragon') is a versatile and visually stunning choice.