Red-Leaf Japanese Maple
Best ornamental tree for adding dramatic color to compact garden spaces.
The Red-Leaf Japanese Maple is a graceful, deciduous small tree known for its striking foliage. It features palmate leaves in a deep red-purple hue that maintains its color well throughout the summer months before transforming into a brilliant red display in the fall. This variety is perfectly suited for use as a specimen tree on a small lawn or to provide dramatic contrast within woodland or urban garden settings. It grows to a mature height and spread of 18 feet and prefers average to moist, well-drained soil. Shelter from harsh afternoon sun is recommended in hotter climates.
$29.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 1209
#7 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-72%
Below average
Mature Height
18
/ feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a vibrant, season-long focal point
- Urban dwellers with limited patio or garden space
- Plant owners prioritizing high-quality, resilient nursery stock
Who should skip it
- Homeowners with gardens exposed to harsh, direct afternoon sun
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for inexpensive landscaping options
- Gardeners located in areas with known soil-borne fungal issues
Performance breakdown
Foliage Color Stability
Deep red-purple hues persist impressively through the heat of summer.
Landscape Versatility
Adapts seamlessly to specimen planting, urban gardens, or container displays.
Environmental Resilience
Requires afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Firewise Suitability
A reliable choice for homeowners prioritizing fire-resistant landscaping strategies.
Growth Predictability
Steady medium growth rate ensures manageable development for smaller lawns.
Visual Impact
Graceful branching and brilliant fall color provide high-end aesthetic appeal.
Key Specs
Mature Height
18 feet
Mature Width
18 feet
Growth Rate
Medium
Hardiness Zone
5
Water Needs
Average to Moist
Bloom Time
Inconspicuous; prized for foliage.
Features
- Gracefully branched stems
- Suitable for container planting
- Good for firescaping/firewise landscaping
- Thrives in urban garden environments
What customers say
Consumers consistently praise the exceptional quality and aesthetic appeal of the Monrovia Red Leaf Japanese Maple. Reviewers frequently note the plant's robust health and vigorous growth immediately after planting, confirming the brand's premium reputation. The striking, deep red foliage is a major draw, delivering significant visual impact and landscape design value. While the price point is higher than competitors, customers feel the superior quality and successful establishment make this purchase a worthwhile long term investment. This tree is celebrated for its reliable beauty and lasting performance.
Know before you buy
Yes, this variety is specifically selected for its ability to maintain a deep red-purple hue during the summer months before transitioning to a brighter red in the fall.
Absolutely. The Red-Leaf Japanese Maple is well-suited for container planting, making it an excellent choice for patios or balconies as long as the pot provides adequate drainage.
While it enjoys sunlight, it is best to shelter the tree from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, to prevent leaf scorch.
Yes, it is highly recommended for urban environments. Its mature size of 18 feet and graceful branching habit make it a perfect specimen tree for smaller landscapes.
This tree performs best in average to moist, well-drained soil. Ensure the planting site does not remain waterlogged, as consistent moisture is key to healthy growth.
Yes, this Japanese Maple is recognized as a good option for firewise landscaping, which can be a helpful consideration if you live in an area prone to wildfires.
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$30