Winter Red Japanese Maple

Winter Red Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Winter Red')

Winter Red Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Winter Red') is a striking, upright cultivar known for its four-season appeal. While its foliage delivers vivid spring and fall color, it�s the rich coral-red bark that sets this variety apart during the winter months. The colorful stems bring warmth and contrast to dormant gardens, making it an excellent choice for year-round interest in focal point plantings, entryways, or Asian-inspired landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Winter Red' grows with a narrow, upright form reaching 10 to 15 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide at maturity. In spring, finely cut leaves emerge in shades of reddish-bronze, gradually maturing to green in summer. Autumn brings a bold display of scarlet and orange foliage. As the leaves drop, its standout feature�bright red bark�takes center stage, glowing in the winter landscape and contrasting beautifully with snow or evergreen backgrounds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade preferred; tolerates full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; prefers slightly acidic conditions.
• Water: Moderate; consistent watering is important, especially during hot or dry weather.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy and reliable in a range of temperate regions.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Vivid bark and seasonal color transitions draw the eye year-round.
• Winter Gardens: Red stems add brightness and structure to dormant beds.
• Entryways and Courtyards: Makes a statement in small spaces with its vertical habit.
• Mixed Borders: Offers height and contrast in layered plantings with shrubs and perennials.
• Asian-Inspired Designs: Harmonizes well with water features, stone, and bamboo.

Low Maintenance Care

'Winter Red' is an easy-to-grow variety with minimal upkeep required beyond watering and occasional pruning. Its structure and bark color stand out best with proper siting and sunlight.

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry spells.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove crossing or crowded branches and maintain form.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Naturally resistant to most pests; occasional monitoring for leaf scorch in full sun is advised.
• Winter Care: No special care needed; bark color is most vivid when exposed to cool temperatures.

Why Choose Winter Red Japanese Maple?

Winter Red delivers color in every season�from spring leaf flush to fall foliage to vibrant winter stems�making it a valuable addition to gardens where year-round beauty is a priority.

• Colorful Coral-Red Bark: Brightens up the landscape through winter dormancy.
• Seasonal Foliage Interest: Offers bold transitions from spring through fall.
• Compact, Upright Habit: Perfect for smaller gardens or narrow beds.
• Low Maintenance: Reliable performance with minimal care.
• Four-Season Appeal: A dynamic plant that delivers beauty in every month.

For standout winter bark and graceful seasonal transitions, Winter Red Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Winter Red') is a standout choice for focal point planting and year-round visual interest.