Bloodgood Japanese Maple
For sale in Lawrenceville, GA
- Slow to Moderate (1 ft/year)
- Part Shade (morning sun, afternoon shade preferred)
- Cold hardy to USDA Zone 8a
- Deer resistant
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About Bloodgood Japanese Maple
Bloodgood Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood') is the most widely planted red-leaved Japanese maple cultivar in the country, valued for holding deep burgundy-red foliage color through the summer better than many other red maples, which often fade toward green in Georgia's intense heat. It grows slowly to moderately, reaching 15-20 feet tall and wide over many years, with a rounded, layered branching habit that becomes more sculptural with age. Fall color deepens to a brilliant crimson-scarlet before leaf drop. In Zone 8a, afternoon shade is important; Bloodgood tolerates more sun than most Japanese maples but leaf scorch can still occur during peak July and August heat without some afternoon relief, especially in reflected heat near pavement. It prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil and struggles in compacted, poorly drained Georgia clay, so bed preparation matters more for this tree than for tougher natives. As a specimen tree for entryways, courtyards, or as an anchor in a mixed border, Bloodgood remains the benchmark against which other red Japanese maples are compared.
🚚 Delivery available to Lawrenceville and all of Gwinnett County — see our service area for exact timing.
Plant Specifications
| Mature Height | 15-20 ft |
|---|---|
| Mature Width | 15-20 ft |
| Sun Requirements | Part Shade (morning sun, afternoon shade preferred) |
| Water Needs | Moderate — consistent moisture, avoid drought stress |
| Bloom Season | N/A (grown for foliage; inconspicuous spring flowers) |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate (1 ft/year) |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8a |
| Deer Resistant | Yes |
| Pet Safe | Yes |
| Native to Georgia | No |
Planting Instructions & Regional Tips
Plant Bloodgood Japanese Maple where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade, especially important during Georgia's hot summers to prevent leaf scorch. Amend heavy clay with compost to improve drainage, since Japanese maples resent wet feet, and mulch well to keep roots cool and moist. Avoid deep planting; the root flare should sit at or slightly above grade. Water consistently during the first two to three years while the root system establishes.
Great For
Fast Facts
- Deep burgundy-red foliage holds color through summer heat
- Mature size: 15-20 ft tall and wide, slow to moderate growth
- Fall color deepens to brilliant crimson-scarlet
- Best with morning sun, afternoon shade in Zone 8a
- Deer resistant, prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
- Classic specimen tree for entryways and courtyards
Pairs Well With
Bloodgood Japanese Maple FAQs
Does Bloodgood Japanese Maple need shade in Georgia?
Bloodgood Japanese Maple tolerates more sun than most Japanese maple cultivars, but in Georgia's Zone 8a heat, afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch during July and August. Morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled light throughout the day gives the best foliage color and healthiest growth.
How fast does Bloodgood Japanese Maple grow?
Bloodgood Japanese Maple grows slowly to moderately, averaging about 1 foot per year, and takes many years to reach its mature size of 15-20 feet tall and wide. Its slow, layered growth habit is part of what makes it valued as a long-term specimen tree.