Moonfire Japanese Maple

Moonfire Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Moonfire')

Moonfire Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Moonfire') is a striking upright cultivar prized for its rich purple foliage, graceful form, and exceptional sun tolerance. Often compared to cultivars like 'Bloodgood', Moonfire stands apart with its slightly more translucent leaves that glow when backlit and retain deep coloration through summer. With its refined shape and luminous foliage, this cultivar adds depth, contrast, and elegance to garden spaces large and small.

Distinctive Features

'Moonfire' typically grows 12 to 15 feet tall and 10 to 12 feet wide, forming a vase-shaped canopy with gently arching branches. The deeply lobed, palmate leaves emerge a vibrant reddish-purple in spring and deepen to near black-purple through summer, with superior color retention even in full sun. In fall, the foliage transitions to fiery shades of crimson and scarlet. Its open structure and finely cut foliage create a soft, airy silhouette, making it a versatile focal point for both traditional and contemporary landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; better sun tolerance than many red-leafed Japanese maples.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils with moderate acidity; avoid overly wet or compacted soils.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist, particularly in dry or exposed locations.
• Humidity: Performs well in a range of climates; provide some shelter from hot, drying winds in warmer zones.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; hardy in most temperate regions with proper care.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Dark foliage and open form create visual drama in garden beds and borders.
• Entryways and Courtyards: Compact size and refined shape make it a natural fit for high-visibility spaces.
• Asian-Inspired Gardens: Integrates beautifully with rock features, water elements, and evergreen accents.
• Mixed Borders: Pairs well with golden or variegated plants for contrast and color layering.
• Containers: Performs well in large decorative pots for patios, terraces, or balconies.

Low Maintenance Care

Moonfire is easy to care for with basic maintenance and proper siting. Its strong leaf coloration and clean structure reduce the need for pruning or special protection, especially in temperate climates.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or crossing branches in late winter if desired.
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases; avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zones 5�8; protect roots in containers or exposed sites with mulch.

Why Choose Moonfire Japanese Maple?

Moonfire Japanese Maple brings bold color and elegant form together in a tree that thrives in a variety of garden settings. With excellent sun tolerance and season-long appeal, it�s a reliable and stylish addition to any landscape design.

• Dark, Luminous Foliage: Rich purple leaves hold color even in full sun.
• Elegant, Upright Form: Vase-shaped canopy adds height and structure to beds and borders.
• Seasonal Interest: Stunning spring and summer color with vivid red fall tones.
• Sun-Tolerant: More resistant to leaf burn than many red-leafed cultivars.
• Low Maintenance: Grows predictably with minimal shaping or pest issues.

For refined color, architectural structure, and dependable performance, Moonfire Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Moonfire') is a standout specimen in both formal and informal garden designs.