Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood,' commonly known as the Bloodgood Japanese Maple, is one of the most popular and widely grown Japanese maple cultivars, revered for its striking burgundy foliage, graceful form, and year-round visual appeal. This elegant tree is a favorite among gardeners and landscapers for its ability to add color, texture, and a sense of tranquility to any outdoor space.

Description

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple is a deciduous tree that typically grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet, with a spread of 15 to 20 feet as well, creating a rounded, upright canopy. Its moderate size makes it an ideal focal point for gardens, patios, and landscapes of all sizes.

The most distinctive feature of the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is its deep burgundy, almost purplish-red foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed and delicate, with a soft, feathery texture that creates a graceful, cascading effect. The vibrant color persists throughout the growing season, only intensifying in autumn when the foliage turns a brilliant scarlet red, providing a breathtaking display before the leaves fall.

In winter, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple continues to offer visual interest with its smooth, gray bark, which stands out against a backdrop of snow or bare branches. In spring, small, inconspicuous red flowers give way to attractive red samaras (winged seeds), adding to the tree's seasonal charm.

Growth and Care

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8, making it suitable for a variety of climates. It prefers a location with partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. In areas with hot summers, providing afternoon shade will help prevent leaf scorch and maintain the vibrant color of the foliage.

This maple thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It appreciates consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, but it should not be waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect the roots.

Pruning is generally minimal, as the tree naturally develops a beautiful, graceful form. However, light pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or crossing branches and to shape the tree if desired. The Bloodgood Japanese Maple is relatively low maintenance, with few pest or disease problems, making it a reliable and enduring choice for the garden.

Benefits

Planting a Bloodgood Japanese Maple offers numerous advantages:

1. Striking Foliage: The deep burgundy leaves provide a bold, year-round color accent that enhances any garden setting.
2. Seasonal Interest: The tree's vibrant autumn foliage, attractive red samaras, and interesting winter bark ensure that it provides visual appeal in all seasons.
3. Graceful Form: The tree's delicate, cascading branches and rounded canopy add elegance and tranquility to the landscape.
4. Versatility: Its moderate size makes it suitable for a wide range of garden designs, from small urban gardens to large landscapes.
5. Low Maintenance: With minimal pruning needs and few pest or disease issues, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is easy to care for, even for novice gardeners.

Why Plant a Bloodgood Japanese Maple?

Planting a Bloodgood Japanese Maple is an excellent way to introduce timeless beauty and elegance to your landscape. Its stunning burgundy foliage, which lasts from spring through fall, provides a dramatic contrast to green plants and bright flowers, making it a standout feature in any garden. The tree's graceful form and delicate leaves add a sense of serenity and sophistication, making it a perfect choice for creating a peaceful retreat in your outdoor space.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is also a practical and versatile choice for a variety of garden settings. Whether used as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or as a focal point in a Japanese-style garden, this maple will enhance the visual interest and character of your landscape. Its adaptability to different light conditions and its low maintenance needs make it a favorite among both experienced and novice gardeners alike.

With its year-round beauty, enduring appeal, and relatively easy care, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is a valuable addition to any garden, bringing lasting enjoyment and a sense of refinement to your outdoor living space.

Check to see if your address is within our delivery area here.