A large bushy deciduous shrub with deep red-purple leaves with 5-7 slender-pointed lobes, turning red in autumn. Small purple flowers are followed by red fruits. One of the best purple-leaved Japanese maples.
There are many garden-worthy cultivars available, which have been bred for their leaf shapes and colours.
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' makes a beautiful small tree, bearing beautiful lobed leaves, which are deep purple in summer, turning scarlet in autumn.
For best results, grow Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' in moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Protect it from the harshest winds, which may cause leaf scorch.
