Red Wine Japanese Maple

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

Red Wine Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Red Wine') is a refined, upright-growing cultivar admired for its rich burgundy foliage, fine texture, and graceful form. Emerging in spring with pinkish-red leaves that turn green into summer before transitioning to fiery orange tones in fall. With its narrow, deeply lobed leaves and open branching habit, 'Red Wine' brings elegance and seasonal drama to garden settings of all sizes.

Distinctive Features

'Red Wine' features finely dissected, lace-like foliage that gives the tree a delicate, airy look. Mature trees typically reach 8 to 10 feet tall with a slightly narrower spread, forming a vase-shaped canopy that adds height without overwhelming nearby plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color in full morning sun with afternoon protection in hot climates.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; water deeply and regularly during dry periods, especially while establishing.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of conditions; protect from hot, drying winds.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-8; hardy with appropriate site selection and care.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Its dramatic foliage and upright form make it ideal for featured positions in the landscape.
• Mixed Borders: Combines beautifully with evergreens, hostas, and shade-loving perennials.
• Courtyards and Entryways: A well-mannered specimen tree for prominent planting areas.
• Japanese Gardens: Enhances the tranquility and layered effect of Asian-inspired designs.
• Container Plantings: Suitable for large containers where its form and color can be appreciated up close.

Low Maintenance Care

Red Wine Japanese Maple requires minimal upkeep once established. Its slow to moderate growth rate and tidy form make it an easy-care choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering; mulch helps retain soil moisture and cool roots.
• Pruning: Light shaping or removal of crossed branches in late winter or early spring is typically all that's needed.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring if needed; avoid overfeeding.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; monitor for aphids or leaf scorch in overly hot, dry sites.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zone 5; young trees may benefit from root zone protection during extreme cold.

Why Choose Red Wine Japanese Maple?

Red Wine Japanese Maple offers a graceful silhouette, enduring seasonal color, and exceptional adaptability, making it a valuable focal point or accent tree in a wide range of garden styles.

• Rich, Lasting Foliage Color: Burgundy-red leaves hold their hue through summer and turn bright crimson in fall.
• Elegant Form: Upright, vase-shaped habit fits well in narrow or structured planting spaces.
• Refined Texture: Narrow, dissected leaves create a fine-textured appearance in the landscape.
• Cold Hardy: Dependable performance in USDA Zones 5-8 with minimal winter care.
• Low Maintenance: An adaptable and easy-to-grow ornamental tree with high landscape value.

For striking color, upright structure, and refined texture, Red Wine Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Red Wine') is a standout selection for adding beauty and balance to the garden.