Red Dragon Weeping Japanese Maple

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

8-10 Feet

Mature Spread

10 - 12 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

A graceful dwarf tree with cascading branches and finely cut foliage, ‘Red Dragon’ delivers saturated color from spring through fall. New growth emerges cherry red to maroon, holds its rich tones through summer, then ignites into brilliant crimson in autumn—an instant focal point for courtyards, entry beds, and Asian-inspired gardens.

Compact and architectural (typically 6–10 ft tall × 10–12 ft wide), this weeping laceleaf maple adds movement and texture year-round. Its elegant, layered habit suits containers, small gardens, and under-story placements, and the branching provides perches that draw songbirds.

Red Dragon Weeping Japanese Maple Care

Plant in full sun to partial shade; ‘Red Dragon’ tolerates more sun than many laceleaf types, but afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates. Provide slightly acidic, fertile, well-drained soil (amend clay with compost and grit for drainage). Keep soil evenly moist—deep water weekly during the first 1–2 seasons and during hot, dry spells thereafter.

Mulch 2–3" over the root zone (keep mulch a few inches off the trunk). Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if growth is modest. Prune sparingly in late fall or winter only to remove dead/crossing wood and to reveal natural layers; avoid heavy cuts (no more than ~20% of the canopy). Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8.

Red Dragon Weeping Japanese Maple Spacing

As a specimen, allow at least 5–8 feet from neighboring plants and hardscape to showcase the cascading form. For an informal duo or small grove, space 7–9 feet on center so mature canopies can overlap slightly without crowding.

In containers, choose a sturdy pot 20–24"+ in diameter with excellent drainage; position pots 3–4 feet from walls or paths for comfortable circulation. With its mature height under many utility clearances, it’s suitable beneath power lines (always verify local guidelines).

Why Grow Red Dragon Weeping Japanese Maple?

• Intense, season-long burgundy foliage that turns fiery crimson in fall

• Elegant, cascading laceleaf form for high visual impact in small spaces

• More sun-tolerant than many dissectum maples; great container candidate

• Compact size (≈6–10' tall × 10–12' wide) fits courtyards and entryways

• Low-maintenance structure—light, selective pruning keeps it picture-perfect

• Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8

A compact, four-season showpiece that drapes in color and texture—‘Red Dragon’ brings instant elegance to patios, courtyards, and garden focal points with very little fuss.