Acer palmatum 'Twombly's Red Sentinel'

Twombly's Red Sentinel Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Twombly’s Red Sentinel’ is a distinctive Japanese maple valued for its narrow, upright habit and rich red foliage, making it an excellent choice where vertical emphasis is desired. Spring growth emerges deep crimson-red, holding a dark burgundy to purple-red tone through summer when grown in partial shade.

Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate lobes, giving the tree a refined yet bold appearance. In fall, ‘Twombly’s Red Sentinel’ turns brilliant scarlet to crimson, providing a vivid and reliable autumn display. The naturally columnar form sets it apart from broader red cultivars.

This cultivar performs best in partial shade and well-drained, evenly moist soil, and is especially useful in tighter garden spaces without sacrificing color impact.

Size



Width: 6–8 ft



Height: 12–18 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Vertical accent in narrow spaces



Specimen tree with columnar form



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Courtyards and entryway plantings



Fall color focal point

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-18'

Width

8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Dark Red

Fall color

Crimson

Soil

Loamy

Shape

Columnar, Narrow Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No