Acer palmatum 'Suminigashi'

Red Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Suminigashi’ (meaning “floating ink”) is a dramatic Japanese maple known for its swirling mix of purple, red, and green tones and distinctive dark veining. Spring foliage emerges deep purple to maroon, often marked with blackish veins and smoky overlays, creating a marbled, ink-wash effect.

Through summer, leaves mature to dark green with purple undertones, especially in partial shade. In fall, ‘Suminigashi’ turns brilliant crimson to scarlet-red, delivering a bold and reliable autumn display. Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate lobes, emphasizing the cultivar’s rich coloration.

The habit is upright and rounded, forming a graceful small tree with strong structure. ‘Suminigashi’ performs best in partial shade, where its complex coloring is richest and leaf scorch is minimized, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 12–15 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for dramatic foliage color



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent tree in protected garden settings



Color contrast in mixed borders



Collector tree for unique leaf patterning

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

15-20'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Maroon, Red Violet

Fall color

Red

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Vase Shaped

Bark

Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

8'

10-year width

8'