Acer palmatum 'Red Wings'

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Low

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Medium

Acer palmatum ‘Red Wings’ is a captivating deciduous tree renowned for its vibrant foliage and elegant form. As a cultivar of the Japanese maple species, it is highly prized for its striking red winged fruits and stunning autumn colours.

The ‘Red Wings’ boasts exceptional foliage with intricately lobed leaves that contribute to its delicate appearance. New leaves emerge in a fresh greenish-red, transitioning through the summer to a rich dark green with a subtle red edge. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms into a spectacular display of crimson, orange, and gold.

In spring, the tree produces clusters of white-green flowers, which give way to one of its most distinctive features: vibrant red winged fruits. These fruits, with their striking contrast against the lush green summer leaves, add a unique touch to the tree’s overall appeal.

Ideal for enhancing courtyards and urban spaces, Acer palmatum ‘Red Wings’ adds both colour and texture to any landscape. Whether planted individually or in groups, this tree is sure to be a standout element in any garden design.

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Size

Small

4m high x 3m wide after 25 years

Environment

An excellent choice for adding colour and texture to a range of settings, particularly courtyards and urban spaces. Its compact size and vibrant foliage make it perfect for smaller areas where space is limited. Thanks to its adaptability and moderate size, it thrives in urban environments. Its elegant form and delicate leaves bring a sense of tranquillity and natural beauty, softening hard landscapes such as concrete, brick, or stone.

Canopy

An upright, loosely rounded habit that creates an elegant silhouette, with slender branches that arch gracefully. This delicate structure and natural form contribute to a sense of lightness and movement, making the canopy an eye-catching and attractive feature in any landscape. Its graceful and airy appearance adds a refined touch to outdoor spaces, enhancing their overall visual appeal.

Foliage

The tree's foliage features leaves that are noticeably larger than those of the typical Acer palmatum. The lobes are moderately to deeply divided, extending two-thirds to three-quarters of the way to the base, creating a textured and intricate appearance. This distinctive leaf shape adds depth and visual interest, enhancing the tree's overall appeal. In autumn, leaves turn a stunning yellow-orange with tints of red.

Fruit

Produces small, delicate, but vibrant red fruits known as samaras. These winged seeds, often referred to as 'helicopters' due to their spinning flight when they fall, appear in clusters and are initially green before maturing to red.

Resilience

Thrives in partial shade, providing protection against leaf scorch while also performing well in full sun. It prefers well-drained soils but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, and demonstrates resilience to drought conditions. For optimal growth, it is important to shield the tree from intense, cold winds. It's adaptability and robustness make it a versatile choice for different environments and weather conditions.