Bloodgood Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’), a well-liked and gorgeous ornamental tree, is a gracefully growing ornamental tree with breathtaking leaves. These magnificent specimen plants have deep, vivid leaves, delicate branches, and a small stature. They stand out all year round as the leaves are purple in springtime, scarlet in summer, crimson in the fall, and silvery bark in winter.
Although Japanese maples ‘Bloodgood’ typically have a single trunk, they sometimes have several stems and resemble shrubs instead. The foliage of the Bloodgood Japanese maple forms an attractive rounded canopy in an appealing spreading pattern. Many liken the leaf shape to that of a marijuana plant. Up- close, the tiny blossoms are rather lovely. Here’s some information about it:
Foliage:
The leaves are deep red-purple in spring and summer, turning crimson in the fall.
Size of the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
It reaches heights of 15 to 20 feet and a similar spread.
Shape:
The Bloodgood tree has a rounded, vase-like shape.
Growing Conditions of the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
Bloodgood Japanese maples prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Care:
They benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods, and mulching to retain moisture.
Pruning:
Pruning should be done in late fall to early winter, while the Bloodgood tree is dormant, to maintain its shape and remove dead or crowded branches.
Bark:
The bark of the Bloodgood Japanese maple is smooth and gray when young, developing attractive fissures and a rough texture as it ages.
Growth Rate:
This specific tree grows slowly to moderately, which makes it ideal for smaller gardens or as a landscape focal point.
Use in the Landscape:
The Bloodgood Japanese maple is ideal for specimen trees, mixed borders, and garden focal points because of its exquisite leaves and graceful shape. It can be cultivated in containers as well.
Low maintenance:
It needs minimal pruning if grown in an appropriate location and with proper care.
Hardiness zones of Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
It is generally accepted that USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 8 are suitable for the Bloodgood Japanese maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’). The Bloodgood tree may benefit from some protection from severe winter weather in Zone 5, such as chilly winds or a lot of snow. It might not survive the heat well in Zones 9 and 10 and would need special attention to flourish. It’s always a good idea to check with local gardening experts or nurseries for specific recommendations based on your location.
Planting Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
Plant Bloodgood Japanese maple tree in spring and fall. Planting a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) is straightforward.
Choose a Location:
Select a site that receives partial shade to full sun. The Bloodgood tree will appreciate protection from the hot afternoon sun, especially in warmer climates.
Prepare the Soil:
Bloodgood Japanese maples prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Hole:
Create a hole 2 to 3 times wider than the Bloodgood tree’s root ball and just as deep, giving the roots plenty of room to spread out.
Plant the Tree:
Ensure that the top of the root ball of the Bloodgood tree is level with the surrounding earth by positioning it in the center of the hole. After filling the hole with dirt, press it lightly to eliminate any air pockets.
Water:
Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Maintain moisture, but not soggy, especially during the tree’s first growing season.
Mulch:
Spread a layer of mulch at the base of the tree to aid conserve moisture and prevent weed growth. Keep the mulch several inches away from the trunk to stop the rot.
Prune if Necessary:
If the tree has any broken or crossing branches, you can prune them back to promote healthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning, especially in the first few years after planting.
Monitor and Maintain:
Keep an eye on the tree’s growth and health, watering as needed and fertilizing sparingly. Bloodgood Japanese maples are generally low-maintenance once established.
How to maintain a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
Maintaining a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) involves regular care to ensure its health and beauty.
Watering:
Japanese maples prefer moist, well-drained soil. Water the soil thoroughly and sparingly, letting it dry out between applications. Steer clear of overwatering, as this might cause root rot.
Mulching:
To assist conserve moisture, control soil temperature, and discourage weed growth, mulch the area surrounding the base of the tree. Mulch should be kept several inches away from the trunk to avoid decay.
Fertilizing:
In general, Japanese maples don’t need a lot of fertilizer. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the springtime, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pruning:
Prune your Japanese maple tree in late winter to early spring while it is still dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and maintain a healthy shape.
Pests and Diseases Protection of the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
Scout for pests, like caterpillars, scale insects, and aphids, and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to treat infestations. Japanese maples are also susceptible to fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent these issues.
Protecting from Harsh Conditions:
In areas with severe winters, protect the tree from strong winds and heavy snow by covering the trunk with burlap or using a tree wrap. Prevent leaf scorch by providing shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates.
Monitoring :
Regularly inspect your Japanese maple tree for any signs of stress, such as wilting or discoloration of leaves. Any problem should be resolved right away to avoid getting worse.
You can help ensure that your Bloodgood Japanese maple tree remains healthy and beautiful for years by following these maintenance tips.
Varieties of Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
Several other varieties of Japanese maples are similar in appearance or share some characteristics. Here are a few:
Emperor I:
This cultivar has vibrant red foliage that holds its color well throughout the summertime. It is renowned for having a robust, vertical growing habit.
Acer palmatum ‘Beni-kawa’:
Springtime brings a lush green color with somewhat reddish borders on the leaves, which later develop a deeper green in the summer and finally turn yellow and shed in the fall.
Sango Kaku (Coral Bark Maple):
This cultivar is prized for its bright coral-red bark, which is particularly striking in the winter months. The leaves are green in the summertime, turning yellow-gold in the fall.
Atropurpureum:
This is a classic Japanese maple variety with deep red-purple foliage that retains its color throughout the season and has a graceful, cascading growth habit.
Dissectum (Cutleaf):
This group of Japanese maples has finely dissected, lace-like leaves. Varieties include ‘Garnet’ with deep red foliage and ‘Viridis’ with bright green foliage.
Acer palmatum ‘Harriet Waldman’:
It reaches a height of fifteen feet (growing under similar conditions as Bloodgood); fresh leaves initially appear pink, but they eventually turn white, pink, and green; as the tree ages, the pink and white colors vanish, leaving green leaves.
Osakazuki:
This cultivar has large, deeply lobed leaves that turn a striking crimson in the fall and is known for its vigorous growth and striking autumn color.
Acer shirasawanum ‘Aureum’ (Golden Full Moon):
Produces golden foliage with a hint of chartreuse to lime; in the fall, the leaves turn orange and red.
These are only a handful of Japanese maple cultivars resembling Bloodgood or exhibiting some of its traits. Every variety has specific qualities and can accentuate certain areas of your landscape or garden.
How long does the red dragon Japanese maple tree take to grow?
How quickly the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) grows depends on the growing conditions, climate, and care. Generally, Japanese maples are known for their relatively slow to moderate growth rate.
A Bloodgood Japanese maple tree can take 10 to 20 years to reach its full mature size, typically around 15 to 20 feet tall, with a similar spread. However, the tree will begin to show its characteristic beauty and form much earlier, often within the first few years of planting.
What is the lifespan of the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree?
The lifespan of a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) can vary depending on its growing conditions, care, and other factors. In general, Japanese maples are long-lived trees and can live for several decades to over a century with proper care.
Under ideal conditions, a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree can live for 50 years or more. However, disease, pests, extreme weather conditions, and environmental stress can impact the tree’s lifespan.
How to propagate ‘Bloodgood’ Japanese Maple:
Several methods to propagate a Bloodgood Japanese maple (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) include seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Most Japanese maples are propagated through grafting by nurseries, requiring advanced training and experience. ‘Bloodgood’ is a cultivar, so cultivating it from seed will not result in a true-to-type tree. Buy a young tree rather than trying to spread it yourself.
Here’s a brief overview of each method:
Seeds:
Harvest ripe seeds from established Japanese maple trees in the fall by gathering them from the trees. Remove the outer husks and plant the seeds in a tray filled with soil that drains properly. Place the tray in a warm, bright area and keep the soil moist. It may require weeks or months for germination to occur. Move seedlings into separate pots after reaching sufficient size.
Cuttings:
Take semi-hardwood cuttings from the current season’s growth in late summertime to early fall. Healthy stems should be used to make 4- 6-inch-long cuttings. Take- off the bottom leaves and soak the cut end in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a rooting medium that drains well and is kept moist. It can take a few weeks or months to root. Pot up the new plants once the roots have grown.
Grafting:
Grafting is attaching a section of the Bloodgood Japanese maple (the scion) to a rootstock of a different maple variety, a more sophisticated form of propagation. This technique is frequently employed to ensure the new plant keeps the beneficial characteristics of the Bloodgood cultivar.
Pros and cons of Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
The Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) is an excellent choice among gardeners and landscapers for its striking foliage and graceful form despite having benefits and drawbacks like any plant:
Pros:
- Beautiful Foliage: The deep red-purple foliage of the Bloodgood Japanese maple adds a vibrant splash of color to any garden or landscape, with leaves often retaining their color well throughout the growing season.
- Attractive Form: The Bloodgood tree has a graceful, rounded form with spreading branches, making it an elegant focal point in any garden.
- Relatively Low Maintenance: Bloodgood Japanese maples are relatively low maintenance once established, requiring regular water, but are easy to care for.
- Versatility: Bloodgood Japanese maples can be grown in various settings, including as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or in containers.
- Seasonal Interest: The Bloodgood Japanese maple provides beautiful foliage with its vibrant fall colors.
Cons:
- Sun Sensitivity: Bloodgood Japanese maples can be sensitive to intense sunlight, especially in hotter climates, and may benefit from some protection from the afternoon sun.
- Slow Growth: While the slow growth rate of the Bloodgood Japanese maple can be an advantage in terms of maintenance, it can also be a drawback if you’re looking for a tree that will quickly reach maturity.
- Susceptibility to Pests and Diseases: Like all Japanese maples, Bloodgood varieties can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, scale insects, and caterpillars, as well as diseases such as verticillium wilt which can be managed with proper care.
- Limited Cold Hardiness: While Bloodgood Japanese maples are hardy in USDA zones 5-8, they may require protection from harsh winter conditions, especially in zone 5.
How to shape a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
Shaping a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) can help enhance its natural beauty and maintain its overall health. Here are some steps to consider:
Choose the Right Time:
When the Japanese maple tree is still dormant, late winter to early spring is the ideal time to shape it. At this point, pruning cuts can be made on the Bloodgood tree without putting it under undue stress because you can see its structure.
Identify the Desired Shape:
Decide on the shape you want for your Bloodgood tree. Japanese maples can be pruned to have a more upright form, a cascading form, or a rounded shape. Remember the Bloodgood tree’s natural growth habit and try to work with it rather than against it.
Dead or Diseased Branches:
Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. These can be pruned to the point where they meet a healthy branch or the trunk.
Reduce Interspersed Branches:
Make thinning cuts to branches rubbing or crossing over one another, increasing air circulation and lowering the risk of illness.
Create a Balanced Shape:
Step back and look at the Bloodgood tree from different angles to ensure it has a balanced and pleasing shape. Remove any branches that disrupt the overall symmetry of the Bloodgood tree.
Use Proper Pruning Techniques:
Make clean cuts outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk or main branch). Avoid leaving stubs, as they can attract pests and diseases.
Avoid Over-pruning:
While shaping your Japanese maple tree is crucial, don’t over-prune, as this might cause stress and stunted growth in the Bloodgood tree. No more than 20–30% of the tree’s canopy should be removed in a single trimming session.
Monitor Growth:
After shaping your Japanese maple tree, monitor its growth throughout the growing season. You may need to do some light pruning to maintain its shape and remove any new growth that detracts from the overall form.
These steps can shape your Bloodgood Japanese maple tree, enhance its natural beauty, and promote its health and vigor.
Applications of Bloodgood Japanese maple tree
The favorable and adaptive ornamental tree, is used in different ways in gardens and landscape design.
Specimen Tree:
The attractive leaves and elegant form of the Bloodgood Japanese maple make it ideal as a focal point in a garden or landscape. Its vivid reddish-purple foliage offers interest and a splash of color.
Accent Plant:
Bloodgood Japanese maples can be used to accentuate other plants or features in the landscape. Their unique foliage and form can create a visually appealing contrast.
Privacy Screen:
Bloodgood Japanese maples can be used as a low-growing privacy screen or hedge when planted in a row. Their dense foliage provides a degree of privacy while adding beauty to the landscape.
Container Plant:
Bloodgood Japanese maples are well-suited for growing in containers, making them ideal for patios, decks, or small gardens. Their compact size and attractive foliage can enhance any outdoor space.
Fall Color:
The Bloodgood Japanese maple’s foliage turns a vibrant crimson in the fall, adding color to the landscape and creating a stunning fall display.
Understory Tree:
In woodland settings, Bloodgood Japanese maples can grow as understory trees, thrive in dappled shade, and provide beauty and interest beneath taller trees.
Bonsai:
Due to their small size and captivating foliage, Bloodgood Japanese maples are well-suited for bonsai cultivation. Their intricate branching patterns and colorful leaves make them perfect for bonsai enthusiasts.
What is the price of a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree?
Bloodgood Japanese maple trees (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) price depends on several criteria, including the size, the nursery or supplier, and the area in which you are buying it.
Here are a few typical price points for the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
Small Tree (1-2 feet tall): These young trees typically cost between $25 and $50.
Medium Tree (3-6 feet tall): Medium-sized Bloodgood Japanese maples can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the size and quality.
Big Tree (7 feet tall and above): Larger, more mature Bloodgood Japanese maples can cost between $150 to $500 or more, depending on the size and age of the tree.
Where to buy Bloodgood Japanese maple tree:
You can buy Bloodgood Japanese maple trees (Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’) from different sources, including local nurseries, garden centers, online retailers, and specialty plant nurseries.
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers:
Check out the neighborhood nurseries and garden centers, particularly the ones focusing on trees and shrubs. They could have Bloodgood Japanese maples on hand or be able to place an order for you.
Online Retailers:
Many online retailers specialize in selling trees and shrubs, including Japanese maples. Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and eBay may have listings for Bloodgood Japanese maples.
Specialty Plant Nurseries:
Specialty plant nurseries focusing on Japanese maples or ornamental trees may have a wide selection of cultivars, including Bloodgood. Search online for nurseries in your area or check with gardening clubs or societies for recommendations.
Botanical gardens and arboretums:
A few of these places sell trees and plants, including Japanese maples. Visit their websites or contact them if you’re interested in buying a Bloodgood Japanese maple.
Local Garden Shows and Events:
Attend local garden shows, plant sales, or events where nurseries and growers gather to sell their plants. You may find a Bloodgood Japanese maple for sale at one of these events.
Summary:
Overall, the Bloodgood Japanese maple tree is a lovely and adaptable tree that can be utilized in several ways to improve the aesthetic appeal and visual appeal of any garden or landscape.
Propagation can be a rewarding way to increase your Bloodgood Japanese maple collection, but it may require some patience and experimentation to achieve success.
Proper care, including regular watering, mulching, fertilization, and pruning, can help promote the health and longevity of the tree. Additionally, providing protection from harsh conditions such as strong winds, extreme temperatures, and drought can help extend its lifespan.
These are only approximate pricing ranges; actual costs may differ significantly based on the previously listed variables. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different nurseries or suppliers to find the best deal.
When buying a Bloodgood Japanese maple tree, it’s crucial to select a healthy specimen and consider the size and condition of the Bloodgood tree. Inspect the Bloodgood tree in person before purchasing, ensuring it meets your requirements
Would you Like to read more interesting trees, then the following topics will interest you.
2. Norway Spruce, How to Grow, Care and Maintain Them