Japanese Laceleaf Maple

About this plant

The 'Red Dragon' Japanese Laceleaf Maple (Acer palmatum subsp. matsumurae 'Red Dragon') is an ornamental masterpiece guaranteed to elevate any landscape. Its deeply incised, lace-like leaves emerge a brilliant crimson in spring, maturing to a rich, deep burgundy that holds its spectacular color throughout summer and intensifies to fiery scarlet in autumn. The delicate, cascading branches create a stunning architectural silhouette, adding year-round interest. Ideal as a focal point in a shaded border, alongside a water feature, or in a decorative container, 'Red Dragon' offers a sophisticated beauty without demanding extensive space. Its compact size and slow growth make it perfect for smaller gardens, courtyards, or even as a living sculpture in a prominent location. Prepare to be enchanted by its ever-changing display of color and texture. At A Cut Above, we carefully cultivate and nurture each 'Red Dragon' to ensure exceptional health and vigor, guaranteeing a specimen that will thrive and become a cherished centerpiece in your landscape for years to come. Our expert installation team can help you perfectly site this magnificent tree to maximize its breathtaking beauty.

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

Requires minimal pruning, primarily to remove dead or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges. Protect from strong winds which can scorch delicate leaves. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

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.