Emperor One is an improved variety of upright Japanese Maple that is similar to the classic Bloodgood. This dwarf shade tree, also known as the Red Emperor, offers 3 seasons of rich red to purple color. This extraordinarily stunning tree adds interest, distinction, and property value to your home!

The attractive leaves are a deep shade of burgundy-plum in the spring and summer. Cool temperatures enliven the leaves of the Emperor One Japanese Maple transforming them into a vibrant, fiery red. This variety boasts excellent color retention under a variety of conditions.

Emperor Maples are ideal for cooler regions where delicate, new leaves are often killed or damaged by late spring frost. Emerging from dormancy a couple of weeks later actually gives this Japanese maple a jump start over other varieties. The Emperor One is heat tolerant and rarely encounters issues with sun scorch even in full sun.

Emperor Japanese Maples thrive in partial shade to full sun and adapt to various, moist soils. These Japanese Maples can grow in zones 5-9.

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How Fast Does This Japanese Maple Tree Grow?

The Emperor variety is fast growing and grows 1-2 feet per year until reaching a mature height of 10-15 feet.

How To Plant A Emperor Japanese Maple?

Plant in spring or fall by digging a hole 3 times the width of the rootball and placing the tree slightly above the soil line. Backfill with soil and slow release fertlizer, layer with 3 inches of mulch and water deeply.

What Are Good Companion Plants For This Tree?

Azaleas, hostas, and ferns pair well with this tree in mixed garden beds, rock gardens, and meditation gardens.

When planting your Emperor One Maple be sure you have the right location and conditions for your new tree to thrive. Spring and Fall are ideal times to plant. However, if you avoid freezing and hot temperatures you can plant your Maple almost any time of the year.

Planting

Emperor Maples tolerate full sun to part shade.

Japanese Maples prefer soil that is well-drained, but moist, neutral to slightly acidic, and nutrient rich. However, Japanese Maples will adapt to a variety of soils. Mulching will keep the roots moist and protect them from extreme temperatures in winter. Add a layer of 2 to 3 inches of mulch. Do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk as this increases the chances of pests and disease.

Watering

Japanese Maples should be watered often enough to keep the soil moist. Do not allow the the soil to dry completely or be overly saturated. Either condition can harm a Japanese Maple.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring and when planting to give your tree a boost. Choose a slow-release, balanced fertilizer like the one we carry.

Maintenance

Japanese Maples don't generally require pruning, but, if needed, prune when they are dormant to remove any dead, dying, or crowded branches, or to maintain shape.

The best way to prevent disease and pests is by providing the appropriate care for your plants. Proper location choice, watering, and fertilization are the keys to your success. Japanese maples don't generally have issues with pests of diseases.

Emperor Japanese Maples mature to 15 feet tall and wide. The Emperor One Japanese Maple is a perfect accent or focal tree for water, rock, Zen, or meditation gardens. Plant in a mixed bed with Junipers for out of this world texture and contrast. Add a few rocks and your neighbors will think you hired a professional! These trees can even be planted in large containers for an exciting look.

For additional options, be sure to browse our Japanese Maple collection