Bloodgood Japanese Maple

About this plant

Elevate your landscape with the captivating beauty of the Bloodgood Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'), a cornerstone tree prized by gardeners and designers alike. Its deeply lobed leaves emerge crimson in spring, maturing to a rich, dark burgundy that holds its color remarkably well throughout the summer, making it a focal point in any garden. As autumn arrives, the foliage intensifies, transforming into brilliant shades of scarlet, offering a spectacular seasonal display. With its graceful, upright-spreading habit and moderate size, 'Bloodgood' is versatile enough for specimen planting, adding structure to mixed borders, or providing dappled shade over a patio. Its sculptural branches offer winter interest, making it a year-round asset. At A Cut Above, we select only the finest specimens to ensure exceptional vigor and breathtaking color in your garden.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Bloodgood Japanese Maples are relatively low-maintenance once established. Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, especially in the first few years. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches; avoid heavy pruning as it can diminish its natural shape. Protect from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.