Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku'
Best ornamental tree for gardeners seeking year-round landscape color.
The Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku', commonly known as the Coral Bark Maple, is a rare horticultural gem prized for its year-round visual appeal. Its most striking feature is the sensational coral red color displayed on its twigs during the winter months, offering a vibrant contrast against snow or sky. During the growing season, the delicate foliage emerges light green and transitions to a bright yellow in autumn. This Japanese Maple is highly tolerant of heat and humidity, growing to a mature height and spread of 10 feet. It is recommended for use as a specimen, in containers, or for adding ornamental foliage interest to the landscape. Asexually reproduced selections ensure consistent quality.
$79.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
512
/ 1251
#512 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-25%
Below average
SKU
27820
Who it's for
- Small-space gardeners needing elegant, compact focal points
- Gardeners seeking vibrant winter interest in dormant landscapes
- Homeowners wanting dramatic seasonal color transitions
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in regions with intense, scorching afternoon sun
- Busy owners looking for strictly low-maintenance landscaping
- Gardeners managing soil prone to fungal pathogens
Performance breakdown
Seasonal Visual Impact
Coral-red winter bark provides unmatched color when landscapes are otherwise dormant.
Climate Adaptability
Superior heat and humidity tolerance expands its range beyond typical maples.
Landscape Versatility
Compact size makes it perfect for containers or small garden focal points.
Maintenance Requirements
A low-fuss specimen that rewards minimal care with consistent, elegant growth.
Foliage Color Palette
Dynamic transitions from spring green to brilliant autumn gold delight year-round.
Genetic Consistency
Asexual reproduction ensures the exact traits and quality you expect.
Key Specs
SKU
27820
Genus
Acer
Species
palmatum
Variety
'Sango Kaku'
Item Form
Trade Gallon (3qt)
Mature Height
10 Feet
Mature Width
10 Feet
Hardiness Zones
5 - 9
Features
- Very tolerant of heat and humidity
- Adds distinction and beauty that increases with age
- Recommended for easy care gardening
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the striking aesthetic of the 'Sango Kaku', noting the brilliant coral bark provides essential winter interest. The primary theme emerging is the exceptional quality of the plants shipped by Wayside Gardens. Reviewers frequently mention receiving healthy, well rooted specimens that are carefully packaged, ensuring successful establishment. While the unique color and form are highly valued, some consumers feel the initial size relative to the price point slightly impacts the perceived value. Overall, the tree's distinctive beauty and robust health make it a highly recommended purchase for garden enthusiasts seeking year round appeal.
Know before you buy
The 'Sango Kaku,' or Coral Bark Maple, is specifically prized for its brilliant coral-red winter twigs. While many maples are grown for their summer foliage, this variety provides year-round interest, especially when the bark stands out against a winter landscape.
You can expect this tree to reach a mature height and spread of approximately 10 feet. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, containers, or as a focal specimen.
Unlike many other Japanese Maples, the 'Sango Kaku' is notably tolerant of heat and humidity. It is well-suited for gardeners in hardiness zones 5 through 9 who want the beauty of a Japanese Maple without the typical sensitivity to warmer weather.
The foliage begins as a delicate light green during the spring and summer months. As autumn approaches, the leaves transition into a vibrant, eye-catching yellow before dropping to reveal the signature coral-red bark.
Yes, its 10-foot mature size makes it a great candidate for large containers. Ensure your pot has adequate drainage and monitor moisture levels closely, as container-grown plants dry out faster than those in the ground.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
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$80