Coral Bark Japanese Maple

Growth rate: Fast growth rate; growing 1-2 ft per year under suitable conditions. Reaches a mature height of 20 ft and canopy spread of 15 ft.

Please note: Images on our website depict plants and trees at full maturity to showcase their expected grown characteristics. These images are illustrative examples only and do not represent the size of plants or trees upon delivery.

Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches or to shape the tree if necessary.

Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Winter Protection: Mulch around the base of the tree in the fall to protect roots and cover with burlap or a protective wrap in colder zones.


When planting Coral Bark Japanese Maple, choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade to protect the leaves from sun scorch. When planting in a pot, use a container with good drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. When planting in the ground, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

The Coral Bark Japanese Maple, also known as Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku,' prefers partial shade to full sun exposure and requires consistently moist soil to thrive. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist and avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings. It is important to water deeply and infrequently rather than frequent shallow watering.

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The Coral Bark Japanese Maple typically grows to a height of 15 to 20 feet with a similar spread when fully mature.

Yes, it's recommended to prune a Coral Bark Japanese Maple to maintain its shape and remove any dead or crowded branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

The best place to plant a Coral Bark Japanese Maple is in a location with partial shade to full sun. It thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure the planting site has good air circulation and protection from strong winds to prevent stress on the tree.

The Coral Bark Japanese Maple is a slow to moderate grower. It typically grows at a rate of about 1 to 2 feet per year under ideal conditions.

No, the Coral Bark Japanese Maple does not stay red year-round. While its young branches and bark have a striking coral-red color, the leaves change color with the seasons. In spring and summer, the leaves are green, but they turn a vibrant yellow in the fall before dropping. So, the tree exhibits red color primarily in its branches and bark.

Yes, you can grow Coral Bark Japanese Maple in pots. This maple variety is well-suited for container gardening. Just make sure to choose a large enough pot to accommodate the tree's roots as it grows. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide regular watering and care to keep it healthy and vibrant in a container. Container-grown Coral Bark Japanese Maples can be a beautiful addition to patios, balconies, or small garden spaces.

Taking care of Coral Bark Japanese Maple in the winter is important to ensure its health and vibrant appearance:

Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree before winter. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and insulate the roots from freezing temperatures.

Watering: Water the tree thoroughly before the ground freezes. Continue to water periodically during dry winter spells, but be cautious not to overwater, as excess moisture can lead to root rot.

Protection: If you experience extremely cold temperatures or heavy snowfall in your area, consider wrapping the tree in burlap or using tree wraps to protect the branches from snow and ice damage. Remove the wraps in the spring.

Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning in the winter. Prune in late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant to shape it and remove dead or damaged branches.

Fertilization: Refrain from fertilizing in late fall or winter, as this can stimulate new growth that may be susceptible to frost damage.

Wind Protection: If your area is prone to strong winds, provide some wind protection, such as windbreaks or barriers, to shield the tree from drying winds.

The leaves on a Coral Bark Japanese Maple can turn brown for various reasons:

Watering Issues: Overwatering or underwatering can stress the tree and lead to browning leaves. Ensure the soil is well-draining, and water the tree consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

Sun Exposure: Too much direct sunlight, especially during hot summer months, can scorch the leaves, causing them to turn brown. Ensure the tree has partial shade or dappled sunlight.

Disease or Pests: Check the leaves and branches for signs of pests like aphids or diseases like leaf spot. Treat any infestations or diseases promptly.

Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of essential nutrients, particularly iron, can cause leaf discoloration. Consider fertilizing the tree with a balanced fertilizer designed for Japanese Maples.

Environmental Stress: Extreme weather conditions, such as drought or frost, can stress the tree and lead to browning leaves. Provide proper care and protection during adverse weather.

Age: It's natural for some older leaves to turn brown and fall off as new growth replaces them. This is typically not a cause for concern.

To address the issue and promote healthy foliage, it's essential to identify the specific cause of leaf browning and take appropriate action based on the underlying problem. Regular maintenance and care can help keep your Coral Bark Japanese Maple vibrant and thriving.

To fix leaf scorch on a Coral Bark Japanese Maple, you can take the following steps:

Watering: Ensure the tree receives consistent and deep watering. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Use mulch to help retain soil moisture.

Sun Protection: Provide some shade or protection from intense sunlight, especially during hot summer months. You can use shade cloth or strategically plant other trees or shrubs to create dappled sunlight.

Pruning: Trim off any dead or severely affected leaves and branches using sharp, sterile pruning shears. This will help improve the tree's overall health.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for Japanese Maples in early spring. This will provide the tree with essential nutrients it needs to recover.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help maintain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests or diseases. If you notice any issues, treat them promptly with appropriate measures.

Proper Care: Maintain overall good care practices, including proper pruning, watering, and fertilization throughout the year to keep the tree healthy and resilient.

It's important to note that while these steps can help alleviate leaf scorch, some leaves may not fully recover, and you may need to wait for new growth to replace damaged foliage. Patience and consistent care will contribute to the tree's long-term health and appearance.

You should water a Coral Bark Japanese Maple regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Here are some general guidelines for watering:

Frequency: Water deeply when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch. This typically means watering every 1 to 2 weeks, but it can vary depending on your climate and local conditions.

Amount: Provide enough water to thoroughly moisten the root zone. Ensure that water reaches the entire root system. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to water slowly and deeply.

Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.

Avoid Overwatering: While it's important to keep the soil consistently moist, avoid overwatering, as Japanese Maples are susceptible to root rot. Make sure the soil has good drainage, and don't allow the tree to sit in standing water.

Monitor Weather Conditions: Adjust your watering frequency based on weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently. Conversely, reduce watering during periods of heavy rain.

Established Trees: Once a Coral Bark Japanese Maple is established (usually after the first couple of years), it may require less frequent watering, but it's essential to monitor soil moisture regularly.

Remember that the specific watering needs can vary depending on factors such as climate, soil type, and the size of the tree. Regularly check the soil moisture to determine when it's time to water, and aim for consistency in maintaining the tree's moisture levels.