Acer p. Crimson Queen 15gal
Best dwarf tree for adding elegant, colorful texture to shaded gardens.
The Acer p. Crimson Queen Japanese Maple is a stunning dwarf deciduous tree, celebrated for its captivating weeping habit and low-branching structure. It maintains a rich crimson foliage color throughout the summer, transitioning to a vibrant scarlet in autumn. Small reddish flowers appear in spring, adding seasonal interest. This tree thrives in partial shade and is ideal for USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, providing exceptional texture and year-round color to any landscape.
$765.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 1209
Best Trees
Price vs Category Average
+614%
Above average
Size
15
/ gallon container stock
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking an immediate, mature focal point for their landscape
- Designers prioritizing vibrant, multi-seasonal foliage color
- Urban homeowners needing elegant, compact trees for small spaces
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in exposed, high-sun locations without protective shade
- Individuals lacking the physical strength or equipment for heavy planting
- Budget-conscious shoppers preferring smaller, more affordable nursery stock
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Deep crimson foliage provides dramatic, high-contrast color throughout the growing season.
Growth Habit
The elegant weeping structure creates a sophisticated focal point for any garden.
Landscape Versatility
Compact size makes it perfect for small spaces or container gardening.
Seasonal Interest
Offers a multi-season display from spring blooms to vibrant autumn foliage.
Establishment Ease
Container-grown stock ensures a robust root system for successful transplanting.
Maintenance Requirements
Requires specific light conditions to prevent leaf scorch in hotter climates.
Key Specs
Size
15 gallon container stock
Mature Height
8-12 ft.
Mature Spread
8-12 ft.
Type
Dwarf deciduous tree
USDA Hardiness Zones
5-9
Light Requirement
Partial Shade
Foliage Type
Deciduous
Tree Species
Maple
Features
- Vibrant crimson foliage all summer
- Brilliant scarlet fall color
- Elegant weeping growth habit
- Attractive low-branching structure
- Dwarf deciduous tree
- Produces small spring flowers
- Container grown for easy planting
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the superior quality and immediate aesthetic impact of this specimen. The robust health and dense branching structure delivered by Cornell Farm are consistently noted. Reviewers highlight that the stunning deep red foliage instantly elevates any landscape design. Although the 15 gallon size represents a premium purchase, consumers feel the exceptional maturity and successful establishment confirm strong value. This plant proves to be a worthwhile investment for creating a high impact focal point in the garden.
Know before you buy
The Crimson Queen reaches a mature height and spread of 8 to 12 feet. You should ensure you have a clear area of at least 10 feet in diameter to accommodate its elegant, weeping habit as it matures.
No, this variety actually prefers partial shade. Too much direct afternoon sun can scorch the delicate foliage, so it is best planted in a spot that receives morning light and afternoon protection.
While this tree is sold in a 15-gallon container for easy transplanting, it is technically a landscape tree. If you choose to keep it in a pot long-term, ensure the container is very large, has excellent drainage, and is protected from extreme temperature fluctuations.
The Crimson Queen has a natural, low-branching weeping habit that requires very little pruning. You may occasionally trim dead or crossing branches in late winter while the tree is dormant to maintain its shape and health.
This tree is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9. If you live in the colder end of that range, it is helpful to mulch around the base of the tree to protect the root system during the first few winters after planting.
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