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Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Beni-Kawa'

The Story

Plant Bio

Beni-Kawa is known for its striking red stems and beautiful, palmate leaves.

The unique feature of Beni-Kawa is its striking red bark, which adds winter interest in addition to the foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAcer palmatum Beni-Kawa offers stunning red foliage that enhances visual appeal in gardens and landscapes.
Practical UsesProvides shade and acts as a natural windbreak.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local biodiversity by attracting insects and birds.
SpeciesAcer palmatumJapanese Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds in moist soil in early fall for natural stratification.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil for optimal growth.
  4. Position in partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
  5. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
  • Prune lightly in late winter to shape the tree
  • Apply a layer of mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Do not prune during the growing season to prevent stress
  • Keep fertilizer away from trunk to prevent rot

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant shade tree with vibrant red foliageDecorative accent in Japanese gardensColorful focal point in mixed borders

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Japanese maples Azaleas Camellias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple grow in?

Beni-Kawa 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 Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple bloom?

Beni-Kawa 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 Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple need full sun?

Beni-Kawa Japanese Maple does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Beni-Kawa 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.