Fireball Japanese Maple

Fireball Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Fireball')

Fireball Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Fireball') is a compact dwarf selection valued for its rich red foliage and naturally rounded form. Bright crimson leaves in spring deepen to burgundy through summer and finish brilliant scarlet in fall. Its small scale makes it perfect for containers, rock gardens, and courtyard plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Fireball' offers intense red foliage color and a tidy, globe shaped habit requiring little pruning. Fine branching and small, divided leaves enhance its refined appearance. This slow growing variety typically reaches 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, providing year round structure in small landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; protect from strong afternoon light in hot zones.
• Soil: Moist, well drained soil with slight acidity and organic matter.
• Water: Moderate moisture; avoid extended dryness or saturated soil.
• Humidity: Average humidity; maintain airflow around foliage.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Compact red specimen for small gardens and patios.
• Containers: Ideal choice for pots and raised planters.
• Rock Gardens: Adds color and structure among stones and low perennials.
• Japanese Gardens: Complements moss, gravel, and bamboo plantings.
• Front Borders: Brings long season color to small landscape areas.

Low Maintenance Care

'Fireball' thrives with consistent moisture and little pruning, gaining character as it matures.

• Watering: Keep evenly moist; deep soak during prolonged dryness.
• Pruning: Minimal; light shaping in late winter as needed.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, slow release fertilizer each spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Reliable and generally problem free when well drained.
• Winter Care: Mulch base to maintain root health in cold weather.

Why Choose Fireball Japanese Maple?

• Brilliant Color: Fiery red tones through all seasons.
• Compact Habit: Perfect for containers and limited spaces.
• Refined Form: Naturally rounded shape requires little maintenance.
• Year Round Interest: Colorful foliage and elegant structure.
• Durable Performance: Adaptable and resilient across climates.

Fireball Japanese Maple provides bold color and compact elegance, making it ideal for small gardens or accent plantings with high visual impact.