Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Rhode Island Red'The Japanese Maple ‘Rhode Island Red’ (Acer palmatum) is a stunning ornamental tree prized for its rich red foliage and compact form. Unlike many other Japanese maples, this dwarf variety maintains a tidy, rounded shape, making it ideal for small landscapes, courtyards, or container gardening. Throughout spring, its leaves emerge a vibrant crimson, deepening to a rich burgundy in summer and finishing with fiery scarlet tones in autumn. This year-round color display and graceful silhouette make it a favorite among gardeners and landscape designers alike.
Native to Japan, Korea, and China, the ‘Rhode Island Red’ thrives in temperate regions and offers excellent cold tolerance. Its manageable growth habit—typically reaching 4–6 feet tall and wide—makes it perfect for accent planting, bonsai, or use as a focal point in smaller outdoor spaces.
Care Instructions
Planting:
Choose a location with partial shade and protection from harsh afternoon sun. Ensure well-drained soil and space for airflow.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Deep water weekly, more often in hot or dry weather.
Pruning:
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape. Remove dead or crossing branches for healthy structure.
Pest Control:
Monitor for aphids, scale, and leaf scorch. Treat infestations with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Soil Tips:
Prefers slightly acidic, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Mulch annually to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
