Acer Palmatum 'Hubbs Red Willow'

Hubbs Red Willow Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Hubb’s Red Willow’ is a linearlobum-type Japanese maple known for its long, narrow, willow-like leaves and strong seasonal color shifts. The foliage emerges bright red in spring, ages to deeper maroon or purplish tones in summer, and returns to brilliant red or orange-red in fall, creating multi-season interest. Its leaf shape gives a fine, bamboo-like texture that stands out in gardens.


📏 Size & Habit


Mature Height: ~10–12 ft (3–3.7 m) in ~10–12 years — moderate size for a Japanese maple.



Spread: ~6–8 ft (1.8–2.4 m) — upright, spreading habit.



Form: Upright, vase-shaped tree with multi-stemmed branching and a delicate silhouette.




🍁 Foliage & Seasonal Interest


Spring: Bright crimson-red new leaves with a fine, elongated texture.



Summer: Leaves deepen toward maroon or purplish-green.



Fall: Vibrant crimson, orange-red, or fiery red autumn color brings strong seasonal impact.



This broad seasonal palette and striking leaf form make it a standout specimen tree in mixed plantings or as an accent focal point.


🌞 Growing Conditions


USDA Hardiness: Zones 5–9 — cold hardy with proper siting.



Light: Full sun to part shade (morning sun + afternoon shade ideal in hot climates).



Soil: Moist, well-drained, organically rich soil.



Water: Even moisture, especially while establishing and during dry spells.



Tip: In very warm sites, give dappled afternoon shade to protect foliage and retain color.


🌱 Care Tips


Mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect the root zone.



Prune lightly only to remove dead wood or to shape — best done in late winter/early spring.



Consistent water during establishment reduces stress and helps maintain color.



Wind protection preserves delicate leaves and prevents scorch.




🌿 Landscape Uses


Specimen tree or focal point in small to medium landscapes.



Accent planting near patios, entries, or mixed borders.



Containers: Can work in large containers with good moisture control.



Provides fine texture and multi-season color that complements both formal and informal garden styles.




Short tag version:
Upright Japanese maple with long narrow red leaves that age to maroon in summer and return to fiery red in fall; graceful specimen ~10–12 ft tall × 6–8 ft wide (USDA 5–9). 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-15'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Purple

Fall color

Orange

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Loamy

Shape

Vase Shaped

Drought tolerant

No