Acer palmatum ‘Fireglow’, also known as the Japanese Maple, is a cultivar prized for its vibrant, long-lasting red foliage. It’s a deciduous tree with a rounded, upright form, reaching a mature height and spread of 10-15 feet. Its leaves emerge a striking red in spring, maintain their intense red color through summer, and intensify to a brilliant purple-red in autumn before falling.
‘Fireglow’ is a medium-sized, deciduous tree with a graceful, upright habit. Its most notable feature is its fiery red foliage, which persists throughout the growing season and intensifies in the fall.
Leaves: Emerges bright red in spring, maintains red throughout summer, and turns purple-red in autumn.
Size: Typically reaches 10-15 feet in height and width.
Form: Upright and rounded, making it suitable as a specimen tree or in mixed plantings.
Additional Notes:
‘Fireglow’ is known for its heat and sun tolerance, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
The red fruits that appear in autumn add to its seasonal interest.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, some afternoon shade is recommended to prevent leaf scorch.
Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Amending soil with compost or garden mix is beneficial.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry spells. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.
Pruning: Can be pruned to shape the tree or remove dead or crossing branches, preferably in late autumn or winter when dormant.
Pest and Diseases: Monitor for aphids, scale, and caterpillars. Verticillium wilt and leaf spot can also occur; remove affected branches and ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring or a balanced liquid feed.
Location: Excellent as a specimen tree, in mixed plantings, or in containers.
