Acer palmatum dissectum 'Red Dragon'

Red Dragon Laceleaf Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Red Dragon’ is a popular weeping laceleaf Japanese maple valued for its fine texture, strong cascading habit, and reliable red color. Spring foliage emerges deep red to burgundy, maintaining a dark red tone through summer better than many dissectum cultivars, especially in partial shade.

The delicately cut leaves form a soft, lacy canopy as branches arch and cascade outward, creating an elegant, flowing mound. In fall, ‘Red Dragon’ develops brilliant scarlet to fiery red color, providing a vivid and dependable autumn display.

The habit is low, spreading, and gracefully weeping, making it an excellent focal point in the landscape. It performs best in partial shade, with protection from hot afternoon sun and strong winds, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 8–10 ft



Height: 6–8 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for cascading form



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent near patios, water features, or slopes



Container planting



Focal point in mixed borders

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

6-8'

Width

8-10'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Dark Red

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Low Mounding, Pendulous

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

4'

10-year width

4'