Bloodgood Japanese Maple

Bloodgood Japanese Maple - Red Leaf Ornamental Tree | 15-20 Feet Tall, Individual Trees

Add timeless elegance and stunning foliage color to your landscape with the Bloodgood Japanese Maple. This classic ornamental tree is prized for its rich deep red leaves that hold their color throughout the growing season. Known for its graceful branching and striking appearance, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple creates a dramatic focal point in gardens, courtyards, and landscape beds.

In spring, the tree emerges with vibrant crimson-red foliage that remains bold through summer before turning brilliant shades of scarlet in fall. Its delicate, finely cut leaves and gently arching branches give the tree a soft, sculptural appearance that adds beauty to any garden setting. With its elegant shape and long-lasting color, Bloodgood Japanese Maple delivers exceptional ornamental interest across multiple seasons.

Why You'll Love the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

Beautiful Red Foliage: Deep crimson-red leaves maintain vibrant color through spring and summer before turning brilliant scarlet in fall.

Elegant Ornamental Shape: Growing 15 to 20 feet tall and wide at maturity with graceful branching that creates a beautiful landscape centerpiece.

Four-Season Interest: Stunning foliage in spring, summer, and fall combined with attractive winter branching structure.

Perfect Accent Tree: Ideal for small landscapes, garden focal points, or decorative courtyard plantings.

Bloodgood Japanese Maple Details

Botanical Name: Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'
Type: Deciduous ornamental tree
Mature Size: 15-20' tall × 15-20' wide (rounded spreading canopy)
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth rate
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained soil rich in organic matter
Water: Water regularly until established, prefers consistent moisture
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8

Growing Conditions

Soil Adaptability: Performs best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay or poorly drained planting sites.

Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, partial shade helps protect foliage from intense afternoon sun.

Hardiness: USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate climates.

Care Instructions

Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Maintain consistent soil moisture during hot or dry periods.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or crossing branches in late winter to maintain structure and airflow.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy foliage and steady growth.

Landscaping Uses

Versatile Applications: Bloodgood Japanese Maple’s elegant structure and rich foliage color make it suitable for: specimen plantings, courtyard gardens, foundation plantings, Japanese gardens, and landscape focal points.

Garden Focal Point Excellence: Its graceful branching and dramatic red foliage make it an outstanding centerpiece for ornamental garden designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should I plant Bloodgood Japanese Maple? Space trees 15 to 20 feet apart to allow for mature canopy development and proper airflow.

Does Bloodgood Japanese Maple stay red all year? The foliage remains deep red through spring and summer before turning brighter scarlet tones in fall.

Is Bloodgood Japanese Maple easy to grow? Yes, it is considered a reliable ornamental tree that performs well when planted in well-drained soil with partial sun protection in hotter climates.