Description
Embrace the elegance of Japanese gardening with the exquisite Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’. This ornamental dwarf maple is a prized cultivar known for its unique, ribbon-like foliage and a delicate structure that enhances any landscape. With leaves that emerge a vivid red in spring, transitioning to a deep burgundy in summer, and culminating in a fiery display of reds in the fall, ‘Red Pygmy’ offers a kaleidoscope of colors throughout the seasons. Perfect for small gardens, containers, or as a breathtaking accent in a mixed border, this slow-growing maple will reach approximately 6-8 feet in height, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate fine foliage without the space for larger trees.
Growing Guide:
Climate: ‘Red Pygmy’ thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 8, favoring temperate climates.
Position: Choose a location with dappled sunlight. While it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, in hotter areas, it benefits from afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. ‘Red Pygmy’ prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions.
Planting: Space your ‘Red Pygmy’ to allow for its mature width and height. Avoid locations with harsh winds or heavy frost pockets.
Care Guide:
Watering: Regular watering is crucial, especially in the first few years after planting to establish a strong root system. Ensure consistent moisture but avoid overwatering.
Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. ‘Red Pygmy’ naturally grows into a beautiful shape that seldom requires heavy pruning.
Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to support new growth.
Mulching: Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Winter Care: In colder zones, provide a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots during winter. Young trees may need burlap wraps to shield against frost.
With the right care, Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’ will grow into a magnificent specimen that brings grace and vibrant color to any landscape. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, ‘Red Pygmy’ is sure to be a satisfying addition to your outdoor space.
Dwarf bush with narrow leaf and a beautiful transparency Certificate of Merit 1969.
The height after 10 years is 1. 15 feet.
The leaf colour is wine red.
The flowering period is May.
This plant is very hardy.
Recommended number per square meter : 1.
Dutch name : Japanese maple
Possible alternatives :
Acer palmatum ‘Atrolineare’. Main difference: almost identical Acer palmatum ‘Beni-ubi-gohon’. Main difference: Acer palmatum ‘Beni-ubi-gohon’ grows slightly more compact
Acer palmatum ‘Enkan’. Main difference: Acer palmatum ‘Enkan’ roder Acer palmatum ‘Greenthumb North Carolina Red’. Main difference: little difference Acer palmatum ‘Pung Kill’. Main difference: Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’ slightly lighter red
Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy Seedling’. Main difference: little difference
Acer palmatum ‘Villa Taranto’. Main difference: Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’ has red leaf .
This plant has the following award: AGM, Award of Garden Merit, 1993, also Certificate of Merit of the Royal Association for Boskoop cultures 1969.
