Crimson Princess Dwarf Weeping Japanese Maple

There is no doubt about it – Japanese maples provide a special kind of beauty unmatched by any other tree. There small size makes it possible to fit them into small spaces, like courtyards, urban gardens, and pots. For that kind of feature, look no further than the Crimson Princess Japanese Maple, a newer variety that is proving to be a great choice. It has the classic ‘dissectum’ leaves – long, narrow leaflets cut right to the base of the leaf, serrated with lovely irregular curlicues. It forms a broad mound, with branches arching out and then weeping down to the ground, gradually reaching about 4 feet, and one day maturing at around 7 feet tall and 8 feet wide – or perhaps a little more in time. That makes it perfect for smaller spots, and ideal to give your Japanese-themed area the perfect look. The leaves open in spring glowing cherry red, gradually maturing through summer to darker red, and then in fall they reliably turn bright reds and oranges. You get durable, consistent color from this variety, although, as with all these trees, sun exposure, climate and environment all play a role. A fabulous choice for a dwarf, weeping tree that captures the full beauty of these very special plants.

• Small mounding tree 5 to 7 feet tall, with spreading, weeping branches
• Deeply cut and serrated leaves of the ‘dissectum’ type
• Spring leaves are rich cherry red, turning dark red in summer
• Reliable fall colors of bright reds and oranges
• Leaf colors are influenced by sun-exposure, climate and soil conditions

Find a spot for your Crimson Princess Japanese Maple that gives it enough sun to develop good leaf colors, but not enough to cause leaf burn. Some morning sun is ideal, but if in hotter zones, light, all-day, dappled shade is probably best. The soil should be rich, moist, and well-drained, with acidic soils slightly preferred but not at all essential. Provide plenty of good compost when planting, and use more as mulch. Try to maintain steady soil moisture, and avoid periods of dryness, especially while young. Deep soaking, rather than sprinkling, will encourage deeper rooting, leading to a more drought tolerant plant. Pests or diseases are rare, and deer generally take little interest in these trees. No pruning is needed, or encouraged, beyond taking out any dead twigs, but some growers regularly remove small twigs from the center of the tree to develop a more open, mature look sooner.