Acer palmatum 'Red Emperor'

Red Emperor Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Red Emperor’ is a vigorous, upright Japanese maple prized for its excellent cold hardiness and long-lasting red foliage. Spring leaves emerge deep crimson-red, typically a bit later than many red cultivars, helping avoid late frost damage. Foliage holds a rich burgundy-red color well through summer, especially in partial shade.

Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form, giving the tree a bold, refined appearance. In fall, ‘Red Emperor’ develops brilliant scarlet to glowing red tones, providing a reliable and vivid autumn display. The habit is upright and rounded, forming a strong, well-branched small tree.

‘Red Emperor’ performs best in partial shade and well-drained, evenly moist soil, and is often favored in colder climates where some Japanese maples struggle.

Size



Width: 12–15 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for dependable red foliage



Cold-hardy alternative to other red Japanese maples



Accent tree in mixed borders



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

15-20'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No