Plant Library

Acer palmatum 'Red Emperor'

Red Emperor Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Red Emperor’ is a vigorous, upright Japanese maple prized for its excellent cold hardiness and long-lasting red foliage. Spring leaves emerge deep crimson-red, typically a bit later than many red cultivars, helping avoid late frost damage. Foliage holds a rich burgundy-red color well through summer, especially in partial shade.
Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form, giving the tree a bold, refined appearance. In fall, ‘Red Emperor’ develops brilliant scarlet to glowing red tones, providing a reliable and vivid autumn display. The habit is upright and rounded, forming a strong, well-branched small tree.
‘Red Emperor’ performs best in partial shade and well-drained, evenly moist soil, and is often favored in colder climates where some Japanese maples struggle.
Size


Width: 12–15 ft


Height: 15–20 ft


Hardiness


USDA Zones: 4–8


Best Uses


Specimen tree for dependable red foliage


Cold-hardy alternative to other red Japanese maples


Accent tree in mixed borders


Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens

Minimum zone

5

Maximum zone

8

Height

15-20'

Width

12-15'