Crimson Queen Japanese Maple

With so many different types of trees available to incorporate into your landscape, it can often be a daunting and even arduous task to choose the right one. Do you want evergreens for year round greenery, or a tree that can provide a multitude of color changes throughout the year? Do you need one that is large and dominating or one that can be accommodated by little space?

There are many things to consider, and choosing the right tree is important to ensure it is suitable for their surroundings and will make a positive contribution to the appearance of your garden. The Crimson Queen does not grow to an overbearing, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or gardens that need a touch of color to break up the monotony of too much greenery.

Even though Japanese maples are native to areas in China, Japan and Korea, the Crimson Queen originated right here in the United States in 1965 and has been a long time favorite among horticulturists for its small size and brilliant color. Considered to be both a tree and a shrub, this weeping dwarf maple can be utilized in many different ways.

Staking the tree as a young plant will help it to grow more upright, and if trained like this it can reach up to ten feet in height. The crown has a wide diameter of nearly twelve feet at maturity. If you decide not to stake the tree it will grow lower to the ground, with the tips of its elegantly arching branches dangling just above the soil.

Appearance of the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple

The leaves are often described as being lace-like, with five to seven finger-like points on each one. The branches are densely packed and the Crimson Queen carries a very leafy appearance from spring through to late fall. New growth produces lovely green leaves with purple-tinged edges, along with small reddish-purple flowers which begin to show in April.

Following the blossoms come winged samaras that ripen in late September to early October. As the seasons progress these turn to orange, yellow and then finally settle on a bright candy apple red in the fall. It will take between 10 to 20 years for the tree to reach its full mature height, and you will want to take this into consideration when choosing your preferred location for it in your landscape design.

Growing Crimson Queen Japanese Maples

Crimson Queen is suitable for areas in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 8. It is capable of withstanding the cold snaps and snow found in the more northern states, as well as the heat and humidity of northern Florida and some parts of Texas. It is also moderately tolerant of drought conditions but you will want to adopt a regular watering schedule during the hottest months, especially when you will not be receiving a lot of rainfall.

Climate and Soil Types

This shrub is highly adaptable to a range of soil types; loam, clay, sandy or chalky, although it’s happiest when the ground is neutral or acidic. Soil should be well drained but maintain a level of moisture that is adequate for the weather conditions. It can tolerate both full sun and partly shaded locations. If you are in one of the hotter parts of its range Crimson Queen will benefit from some shade to avoid leaf scorch from too much exposure.

Colder areas that experience a lot of snow, ice or windy conditions will mean the tree needs to be sheltered, either by other plants around it or by situating it near buildings or tall fencing. If you keep this information in mind, choosing the right location for your Crimson Queen won’t be too difficult. Because of its versatility and adaptability, most locations are going to be suitable and should allow the tree to flourish.

Caring For Your Crimson Queen Japanese Maple

Caring for the Crimson Queen will depend on how you choose to grow it. If you require it to be more upright and tree-like staking it will allow it to grow to its full height and display its wide weeping crown in its full glory. For use as a shrub staking won’t be necessary, as the tree naturally forms lower to the ground as it spreads out. The crown will still form just as beautifully.

Use as either a tree or a shrub will not detract from its beauty. It is tolerant of pruning and this should be done when the tree is most dormant in the colder months. Fertilization should also take place in early spring before new growth appears. Like many other maple varieties, this species has no serious insect or disease problems.

Add Beauty and Color to Your Garden!

Both commercial and home landscaping will benefit from the addition of this beautiful and colorful tree. Whichever way you choose to grow your Crimson Queen Japanese Maple, it is guaranteed to be a strong color producer and a powerful focal point full of that visual attractiveness that many gardeners are seeking when constructing their ideal outdoor living spaces. The Crimson Queen is aptly named and will most certainly be a great investment.

What makes the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple different from other Japanese Maples?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple stands out from other Japanese Maples due to its unique characteristics. Originating in the United States in 1965, it quickly gained popularity for its vibrant red color that lasts throughout the summer, unlike other varieties that fade to a muddy green. Its small size and weeping form make it a versatile choice for any garden, as it can be grown as either a tree or a shrub. This flexibility, combined with its stunning color, make the Crimson Queen a unique and desirable choice among Japanese Maples.

How can I prevent leaf scorch on my Crimson Queen Japanese Maple?

To prevent leaf scorch on your Crimson Queen Japanese Maple, it’s important to consider its location in your garden. While this variety can tolerate both full sun and partly shaded locations, it can benefit from some shade, particularly in hotter regions. Too much sun exposure can lead to leaf scorch, so providing some shade can help maintain the health and vibrancy of the tree. Consider planting it near larger trees or structures that can provide some afternoon shade, or use a shade cloth to protect it during the hottest parts of the day.

How can I use the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple in my landscape design?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple is a versatile addition to any landscape design due to its size, form, and color. It can be grown as a tree or a shrub, allowing it to fit into various spaces in your garden. Its small size and weeping form make it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or as a focal point in larger landscapes. The brilliant red color of the Crimson Queen can provide a stunning contrast to the greenery in your garden, breaking up the monotony and adding a touch of drama. Whether you choose to use it as a standalone feature or as part of a mixed planting, the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple is sure to enhance your landscape design.

What care does the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple require?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple requires minimal care, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. It is tolerant of pruning, which should be done during the colder months when the tree is most dormant. Fertilization should take place in early spring before new growth appears. Despite its delicate appearance, the Crimson Queen is robust and has no serious insect or disease problems. It is also moderately tolerant of drought conditions, although a regular watering schedule is recommended during the hottest months, especially in areas with little rainfall.

How long does it take for the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple to reach its full mature height?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple is a slow-growing tree, taking between 10 to 20 years to reach its full mature height. With proper care and optimal growing conditions, it can reach up to ten feet in height. This slow growth rate allows you to enjoy the process of watching the tree develop and mature over time, adding to the enjoyment of having this beautiful tree in your garden.

What are the best conditions for growing the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple is a hardy tree that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It is suitable for areas in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 8, capable of withstanding both cold snaps and snow found in the more northern states, as well as the heat and humidity of northern Florida and some parts of Texas. It is also moderately tolerant of drought conditions. In terms of soil, the Crimson Queen is highly adaptable and can grow in a range of soil types, including loam, clay, sandy or chalky soils. However, it prefers neutral or acidic soil that is well-drained but maintains a level of moisture that is adequate for the weather conditions.

What are the unique features of the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple’s leaves?

The leaves of the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple are one of its most distinctive features. They are often described as being lace-like, with five to seven finger-like points on each one, giving the tree a delicate and intricate appearance. New growth in the spring produces lovely green leaves with purple-tinged edges, adding to the tree’s visual interest. The tree carries a very leafy appearance from spring through to late fall, providing a lush and vibrant display for a significant portion of the year.

What kind of flowers does the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple produce?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple produces small reddish-purple flowers that begin to show in April, adding a touch of color and interest to your garden in the spring. Following the blossoms, the tree produces winged samaras, a type of fruit, that ripen from late September to early October. These changes in the tree’s appearance throughout the year add to its appeal, providing visual interest and color in multiple seasons.

Can the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple be grown in a container?

Yes, the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple can be grown in a container due to its small size and weeping form. This makes it a versatile choice for those with limited garden space or those who wish to add a touch of color to their patio or balcony. When grown in a container, it’s important to ensure the tree is well-watered and the container has adequate drainage. The tree can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size, making it an ideal choice for container gardening.

What kind of wildlife does the Crimson Queen Japanese Maple attract?

The Crimson Queen Japanese Maple can attract a variety of wildlife to your garden. Its small reddish-purple flowers that bloom in April can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The winged samaras, or seeds, that ripen from late September to early October can also attract birds. By adding a Crimson Queen Japanese Maple to your garden, you can not only enjoy its stunning color and form, but also the variety of wildlife it can attract.