Red Dawn Full Moon Maple

Red Dawn Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Red Dawn')

Red Dawn Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Red Dawn') is a rare and elegant cultivar that blends the full moon leaf form of shirasawanum maples with rich burgundy-red foliage and a graceful upright habit. Known for its refined texture, dynamic color, and architectural branching, this variety offers a sophisticated focal point for shaded gardens and ornamental landscapes. It brings the deep hues of red Japanese maples into a rounded, lobed form not commonly seen in darker-foliaged types.

Distinctive Features

'Red Dawn' typically grows 10 to 15 feet tall and 8 to 12 feet wide, forming a rounded to upright vase shape with a layered, open canopy. The foliage emerges a soft burgundy-red in spring, darkens to deep maroon through summer, and finishes in glowing red and orange tones in fall. Each leaf is rounded and deeply divided, resembling the iconic full moon maple form. While slower growing than Acer palmatum types, 'Red Dawn' rewards patience with unmatched texture, coloration, and poise in the landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to dappled sun preferred; tolerates some morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon exposure in hot climates.
• Soil: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils with slight acidity; avoid heavy clay or overly dry sites.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during the growing season, especially in warm or exposed locations.
• Humidity: Performs best in moderate humidity; avoid excessively dry or windy sites.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�7; suitable for temperate gardens with winter protection in exposed conditions.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Rich red foliage and rounded leaves provide a distinctive presence in shaded beds.
• Woodland Gardens: Complements ferns, hellebores, and hostas with subtle contrast and structure.
• Court Yards and Entry Gardens: Compact size and elegant shape make it ideal for small, high-visibility areas.
• Japanese-Inspired Landscapes: Blends seamlessly with stones, bamboo, and water features in serene settings.
• Collector Gardens: A rare and refined specimen prized for its unique coloration and form.

Low Maintenance Care

Red Dawn Full Moon Maple is relatively low maintenance when placed in appropriate conditions. Its slower growth rate and tidy shape make it a long-lived, manageable choice for refined landscapes.

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells and the establishment period.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape lightly in winter or early spring to maintain structure.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support foliage color and health.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; monitor for aphids or mildew in humid conditions with poor air circulation.
• Winter Care: Hardy in Zones 5�7; mulch root zone in fall to insulate against temperature swings.

Why Choose Red Dawn Full Moon Maple?

Red Dawn offers something truly unique�deep red color combined with the full moon maple leaf shape in a compact, elegant form. It�s an exceptional focal point tree for those seeking distinctive structure, color, and texture in shade to part-sun gardens.

• Unique Red Foliage: Deep burgundy leaves maintain color through summer and intensify in fall.
• Full Moon Form: Rounded, lobed leaves provide visual interest and a softer aesthetic than palmate types.
• Graceful, Upright Habit: Naturally symmetrical and layered branching requires little shaping.
• Perfect for Shade: Thrives in dappled light where its color and form can shine.
• Rare and Collectible: A standout among Japanese maples for its color, structure, and scarcity.

With rich, dynamic foliage and elegant structure, Red Dawn Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Red Dawn') is a premium choice for gardeners seeking bold color in a compact, graceful form.