Ice Dragon Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Ice Dragon'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
96 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
60+ years
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
This cultivar of Japanese Maple is known for its unique foliage and cold hardiness. A hardy, weeping dissectum-type with finely-cut, lacy green leaves. New growth can have a reddish tint. Fall color is a spectacular mix of yellow, orange, and scarlet.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck well-draining, acidic soil around roots for optimal growth.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
- Water deeply and consistently during the first year to establish roots.
- Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate temperature.
- Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
Pro Tip
Use a layer of mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture, especially in warmer climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Prune in late winter to shape and remove dead wood ✂️
- Apply a balanced, acid-loving fertilizer in early spring 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Protect from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, intense sunlight in hot afternoons
- Refrain from heavy pruning during the growing season
- Do not plant in heavy clay soils without amendment
- Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent new tender growth
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
Ice Dragon Japanese Maple questions
What zones can Ice Dragon Japanese Maple grow in?
Ice Dragon Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Ice Dragon Japanese Maple deer resistant?
Yes — Ice Dragon Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Ice Dragon Japanese Maple bloom?
Ice Dragon Japanese Maple typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Ice Dragon Japanese Maple need full sun?
Ice Dragon Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Acer to compare
Bloodgood Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'
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'
Keep exploring
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Grow Ice Dragon 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.
