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Deciduous And Flowering Trees

Red Select Japanese maple

Acer palmatum dissectum 'Red Select'

'Red Select' Japanese maple pairs lace-like leaves with a broad, cascading crown. Foliage opens light red, deepens toward red-purple in summer, and can finish crimson in autumn. Expect about 4–6 feet of height at ten years and eventually 6–10 feet, with a spread reaching 8–15 feet. Its future width deserves a generous specimen bed rather than a narrow gap between shrubs. Near a patio or lightly shaded garden edge, the seasonal changes are easy to enjoy. Maintain summer moisture in organic, well-drained soil and protect fine foliage from drying wind and hot afternoon exposure. Minimal pruning preserves its layered framework.

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At a glance

Mature height
6–10 ft; about 4–6 ft at ten years
Mature spread
About 8–15 ft
Light
Sun to partial shade
Hardiness
USDA Zones 5–9

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Cascading branches need a broad space near a patio or along a lightly shaded border. In a small garden, keep neighboring shrubs clear so the canopy remains visible.

Where to plant

Plan for roughly 8–15 feet of spread, even while the young tree is low. Protect from drying wind and hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the fine foliage.

Through the seasons

Spring growth is light red, deepening toward red-purple in summer and sometimes crimson in autumn. Winged seeds develop after the small spring flowers.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Dry summer weather can damage laceleaf maple foliage without regular watering. A sheltered site with some afternoon shade is useful where sun exposure or reflected heat is strong.

Soil, drainage & water

Provide organic, slightly acidic soil with reliable drainage. Keep moisture consistent during dry periods and use mulch to reduce drying around the roots.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Prune minimally, retaining the broad, cascading structure. Make necessary cuts in dry weather from late fall to midwinter, and maintain moisture rather than relying on pruning to manage stress.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Leaf scorch

Fine leaf segments become crisp or brown when heat and dry soil stress the plant.

Help your plant thrive

Keep soil moisture even and check afternoon exposure. Mulch the roots and provide shelter from drying wind.

Pale foliage

Unusual yellowing can occur when soil pH or root conditions interfere with nutrient uptake.

Help your plant thrive

Test soil and assess drainage before fertilizing. Correct moisture problems rather than adding water to already saturated soil.

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