Dragon's Fire Japanese Maple

Dragon's Fire Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Dragon's Fire')

Dragon's Fire Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Dragon's Fire') is an upright red selection with foliage that erupts bright crimson in spring, settles to rich burgundy in summer, and finishes glowing scarlet in fall; its medium sized, well branched canopy brings dependable color and refined structure to entries, borders, and courtyard plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Dragon's Fire' combines saturated red tones with slightly serrated, five to seven lobed leaves on a balanced framework; good color holding through summer heat and a clean winter silhouette make it a reliable specimen.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon protection in hot regions.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate and consistent; avoid drought and waterlogged soil.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: About 10 to 14 ft tall and 8 to 12 ft wide, upright rounded habit.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Intense red foliage anchors front yards and island beds.
• Entry Gardens: Frames paths and patios with color and shade.
• Mixed Borders: Contrasts with green and gold shrubs or conifers.
• Court yards and Patios: Adds structure and seasonal interest in compact spaces.
• Japanese Gardens: Complements stone, gravel, and water features.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to maintain steady soil moisture.
• Pruning: Light structural pruning in late winter; avoid heavy midsummer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Apply 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture and regulate temperature; keep mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide airflow and some afternoon shade in hot sites to limit leaf scorch; generally resilient in well drained soils.

Why Choose Dragon's Fire Japanese Maple?

• Season Long Color: Crimson spring, burgundy summer, and scarlet fall.
• Manageable Size: Ideal scale for residential landscapes.
• Design Versatility: Works in borders, entries, and Japanese themed plantings.
• Four Season Appeal: Spring flush, summer presence, fall color, winter form.
• Reliable Performance: Consistent growth and ornamental value with modest care.

For the richest color and healthiest canopy, pair morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates and maintain consistent, well drained soil moisture.