Bloodgood Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
210 inches
Width
210 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
60+ years
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Acer palmatum, commonly known as Japanese maple, is a species of small deciduous tree native to eastern Asia. It is prized for its graceful habit, delicate lobed leaves, and spectacular fall coloration, making it a focal point in many landscapes. 'Bloodgood' is one of the most reliable and popular purple-leaved Japanese maples. It is distinguished by its deep, blackish-red leaves that hold their color well into the summer before turning a brilliant crimson in autumn. It forms a rounded, upright tree with a strong structure.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-draining acidic soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings in early spring or fall for best results.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Provide partial shade during hot summer months to prevent leaf scorch.
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during first two years.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Pro Tip
Use filtered or dappled sunlight for optimal leaf coloration and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply and regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches
- Feed with a balanced acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to harsh, direct afternoon sun in summer
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall or winter
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soils without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bloodgood Japanese Maple questions
What zones can Bloodgood Japanese Maple grow in?
Bloodgood Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bloodgood Japanese Maple deer resistant?
Yes — Bloodgood Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bloodgood Japanese Maple bloom?
Bloodgood Japanese Maple typically blooms in spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bloodgood Japanese Maple need full sun?
Bloodgood Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Acer to compare
Orangeola Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Orangeola'
Crimson Queen Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen'
Weeping Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Shidare'
Coral Bark Maple
Acer palmatum 'Sango-Kaku'
Final Fire Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Final Fire'
Esk Sunset Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Esk Sunset'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bloodgood Japanese Maple with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
