Fireglow Japanese Maple

Fireglow Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Fireglow')

Fireglow Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Fireglow') is a vibrant red-leafed cultivar known for its glowing, translucent foliage and compact, upright form. Unlike darker varieties such as �Bloodgood�, Fireglow�s foliage remains vivid throughout the growing season�particularly when backlit by morning or evening sun. Its smaller size and consistently bold color make it an excellent focal point for urban gardens, courtyards, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Fireglow' produces deeply lobed, palmate leaves that emerge a rich burgundy-red in spring and maintain bright ruby to crimson tones well into summer. In fall, the leaves intensify to a fiery scarlet. This cultivar matures to 10 to 12 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide, with a dense, vase-shaped canopy that offers excellent structure even when bare. The glowing quality of the leaves�especially when sunlight filters through�is where it gets its name.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color and leaf glow achieved with morning or dappled afternoon light.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic material.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during dry spells, particularly during establishment.
• Humidity: Tolerates average humidity; benefits from protection from hot, drying winds.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; well-suited to temperate gardens with cold winters and warm summers.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Vivid red foliage and elegant shape make it a striking centerpiece.
• Urban Gardens: Compact size fits well in small city yards or townhome landscapes.
• Containers: Thrives in large pots where its color and structure can be fully appreciated.
• Mixed Borders: Provides color contrast and seasonal interest among greens and golds.
• Japanese-Inspired Designs: Enhances tranquil spaces with grace and vivid foliage.

Low Maintenance Care

'Fireglow' is easy to care for with minimal pruning and basic watering. Its strong form and reliable foliage make it a dependable option for gardeners seeking color with low effort.

• Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially in the first 2�3 years after planting or during extreme heat.
• Pruning: Minimal; shape in winter if needed to remove crowded or crossing branches.
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support leaf growth and vigor.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases; monitor for occasional aphids or mildew in humid regions.
• Winter Care: Mulch around the root zone to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Why Choose Fireglow Japanese Maple?

Fireglow offers brilliant, season-long color in a manageable size and elegant form�perfect for any garden needing a bold yet refined accent.

• Long-Lasting Red Color: Foliage remains vibrant from spring through fall.
• Translucent Glow: Leaves appear luminous when backlit by sun.
• Compact and Upright: Grows to 10�12 feet, ideal for smaller spaces.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little pruning and adapts well to most garden settings.
• Elegant Focal Point: A refined centerpiece for modern or traditional landscapes.

For rich color, compact form, and a glowing presence in the landscape, Fireglow Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Fireglow') delivers enduring beauty and impact.