Acer 'Pacific Fire'
Best ornamental tree for gardeners seeking year-round visual interest in small spaces.
The Acer 'Pacific Fire' is a captivating large shrub or small tree, celebrated for its year-round visual appeal. Its lime green summer leaves transform into vibrant yellow and orange in the fall. Once the leaves drop, the tree reveals striking, flaming red bark with a waxy sheen, offering excellent winter interest. This adaptable variety matures to 18 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it well-suited for woodland gardens or smaller landscape areas. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained, normal to loamy soil, requiring easy care.
$79.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
986
/ 4677
#986 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
+189%
Above average
Mature Height
18
/ feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking vibrant color during bleak winter months
- Homeowners in colder climates wanting reliable, hardy specimen trees
- Landscapers prioritizing year-round visual interest and seasonal variety
Who should skip it
- Urban gardeners working with restricted vertical or horizontal space
- Busy gardeners looking for low-maintenance, hands-off landscape plants
- Residents in hot climates with limited shaded planting areas
Performance breakdown
Winter Visual Impact
The brilliant red bark provides unmatched seasonal interest during dormant months.
Fall Foliage Vibrancy
Autumn leaves deliver a high-contrast display of intense yellow and orange.
Maintenance Ease
Requires minimal intervention once established in suitable soil conditions.
Space Versatility
Compact mature dimensions fit perfectly into smaller gardens or woodland settings.
Hardiness Range
Broad adaptability across USDA zones five through nine ensures reliable growth.
Hydration Requirements
High water needs demand consistent moisture for optimal health and vigor.
Key Specs
Mature Height
18 feet
Mature Width
15 feet
Foliage Type
Deciduous
Tree Species
Maple
USDA Hardiness Zones
5 - 9
Light Requirement
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs
High
Soil Type Preference
Loam, Well-drained
Features
- Striking flaming red bark for winter appeal
- Vibrant yellow and orange fall foliage
- Architectural interest as it matures
- Ideal for woodland gardens
- Suitable for smaller spaces
- Easy care maintenance
- Dramatic seasonal color changes
- Provides excellent fall color
What customers say
Customers consistently express high satisfaction regarding the aesthetic quality and health of the Acer 'Pacific Fire'. The tree's unique design feature, the brilliant red winter bark, is a major draw and frequently exceeds expectations, providing year round visual interest. Reviewers often highlight the excellent condition of the plant upon delivery, noting robust root systems and careful packaging, which speaks directly to product quality. While the initial size sometimes prompts discussion, the plant's reliable vigor and stunning color payoff confirm its strong long term value.
Know before you buy
Once the leaves drop, this tree reveals striking, flaming red bark with a waxy sheen. It provides significant visual interest during the dormant season when most other garden plants are bare.
At maturity, the 'Pacific Fire' reaches 18 feet in height and 15 feet in width. You should plant it in a location that accommodates this size to ensure it has enough room to develop its architectural shape.
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained, loamy soil. Consistent moisture is key to keeping this variety healthy, especially during its establishment phase.
The 'Pacific Fire' is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. It is a versatile choice for a wide range of climates, provided it receives adequate water and appropriate soil conditions.
No, it is considered an easy-care variety. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance beyond regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.
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$80