First Flame Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'First Flame'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
84 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Acer palmatum 'First Flame' is known for its striking foliage that changes colors through the seasons, displaying vibrant orange and red hues in spring and summer. This cultivar features unique foliage that emerges red in spring and transitions to a yellow and green blend in the summer, making it a standout in ornamental gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a well-draining, slightly acidic soil for planting.
- Plant in a location with partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
- Water deeply and regularly during the first year to establish roots.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Prune gently in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Pro Tip
Provide protection from winter wind and frost to prevent leaf scorch and root damage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune in late winter to shape the tree
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don’t expose the tree to scorching afternoon sun in hot climates
- Refrain from heavy pruning during the growing season
- Do not plant in poorly-draining soils
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
First Flame Japanese Maple questions
What zones can First Flame Japanese Maple grow in?
First Flame 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 First Flame Japanese Maple deer resistant?
Yes — First Flame Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does First Flame Japanese Maple bloom?
First Flame Japanese Maple typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does First Flame Japanese Maple need full sun?
First Flame Japanese Maple does best in part shade.
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
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow First Flame 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.
