Sumi Nagashi Japanese Maple

Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi')

Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi') is a bold, upright variety known for its dramatic foliage and strong architectural presence. Translating to �ink flowing on water,� the name reflects the tree�s deep purplish-red leaves that appear to dance and shift in the light. Its robust form and vibrant seasonal color make it a striking addition to formal landscapes, woodland borders, and focal point plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Sumi-Nagashi' leafs out in spring with deeply lobed, red-purple foliage that retains its rich coloration well into summer, especially in full sun. In fall, the leaves transition to bright crimson, putting on a show of intense color. This cultivar grows in a broad, upright vase-shaped form, typically reaching 15 to 18 feet tall and 12 to 15 feet wide at maturity. Its strong branching and consistent coloration make it one of the more reliable red-leaved Japanese maples for larger garden settings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best coloration is achieved with at least 4�6 hours of direct sunlight.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Water: Moderate; water deeply and regularly, especially during hot or dry periods.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels with proper airflow and drainage.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy and reliable in temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Bold foliage and upright structure make it ideal as a centerpiece tree.
• Woodland Gardens: Stands out among greens and golds with its rich burgundy color.
• Foundation Plantings: Adds vertical interest and seasonal drama near buildings or walkways.
• Japanese-Style Landscapes: Perfect for traditional garden compositions with strong form and presence.
• Mixed Borders: Offers contrast in color, shape, and texture when paired with softer shrubs or evergreens.

Low Maintenance Care

Sumi-Nagashi is easy to grow and requires only basic maintenance to thrive. Its upright habit and consistent form make it a low-effort addition to most garden designs.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially in the first few seasons after planting.
• Pruning: Minimal shaping needed; prune in late winter to remove dead or crowded branches.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and leaf color.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most pests and diseases when planted in well-drained soil with good air circulation.
• Winter Care: Mulch around the root zone in late fall to protect roots from temperature fluctuations.

Why Choose Sumi-Nagashi Japanese Maple?

Sumi-Nagashi offers a powerful visual impact with its upright habit, rich color, and seasonal brilliance. It�s a dependable, visually arresting maple that brings year-round structure and beauty to the landscape.

• Striking Red-Purple Foliage: Bold spring and summer color that intensifies in fall.
• Vigorous Upright Growth: Ideal for creating vertical accents in the garden.
• Seasonal Drama: Vivid crimson fall foliage provides a stunning display.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally tidy with little need for intervention.
• Cold Hardy: Performs reliably in cooler climates with minimal winter care.

For gardeners seeking a commanding, upright tree with rich color and strong form, Sumi-Nagashi (Acer palmatum 'Sumi-Nagashi') is a standout choice with year-round appeal.