Bloodgood Maple Tree – Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'

Bloodgood Maple Tree Guide

In these articles, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Bloodgood Maple tree, from its origins and characteristics to planting and care tips.

Origins And Characteristics Of The Bloodgood Maple

The Bloodgood Maple, a cultivar of the Japanese Maple, originates from Japan, Korea, and China. It has been cherished for centuries for its ornamental value and has become a staple in gardens worldwide, including New Zealand.

Distinctive Features

• One of the most striking features of the Bloodgood Maple is its stunning foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed and emerge in a bright crimson hue in spring. As the seasons change, the leaves transition to a deep burgundy in summer before turning brilliant scarlet in autumn. This seasonal transformation provides a dynamic display of colour that enhances any landscape.
• The Bloodgood Maple typically grows to a height of about 5-7 m tall, with a spread of about 5 m, and can easily be contained with trimming. The fine and delicate leaves give it a light, airy appearance.

Planting the Bloodgood Maple

Planting the Bloodgood Maple requires careful consideration of site selection and preparation to ensure the tree thrives in your garden.

Site Selection

• These trees prefer full sun or partially shaded areas with a well-drained soil. If water pools in the hole for longer than one-hour, drainage is a problem. This can be addressed to some degree by planting the tree on a mound of soil. The site should also be free from strong winds to avoid branches being broken.

Planting Tips

• Dig a hole that's twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. This gives the roots room to spread and establish themselves.
• Incorporate compost or sheep pellets with the soil to improve the soil health.
• Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, pressing down gently to remove air pockets. A spirit level can be used to ensure the tree is straight up and down.
• Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and provide moisture for the roots.
• Be sure to put in one or two stakes so your tree is well-supported.

Caring for Your Bloodgood Maple

Once planted, the Bloodgood Maple requires minimal care to keep it thriving.

Watering and Mulching

• Young trees need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Once established, the Bloodgood Maple is relatively drought-tolerant but will certainly benefit from being watered. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning

• Pruning is essential to maintain the tree's shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Be careful not to remove too much at once, as this can stress the tree.

Fertiliser

• Fertilise your Bloodgood Maple in early spring with tree fertiliser. This is a balanced, slow-release fertiliser designed to keep the tree fed for 12 months.

Common Bloodgood Issues and Solutions

The Bloodgood Maple is generally low-maintenance, however, it can occasionally encounter problems.

• Common pests that may affect the Bloodgood Maple include aphids, scale, and spider mites. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of infestation and treat with an appropriate insecticide.
• Diseases such as root rot can occur if the tree is planted in poorly drained soil. Ensuring proper planting conditions and maintaining tree health can help prevent these issues.
• Leaf scorch, characterized by browning leaf edges, can occur during hot and dry weather, for trees grown in coastal areas, or with excessive wind. To prevent this, ensure the tree is adequately watered with sufficient shelter. Mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture.

Landscaping With Bloodgood Maple

The Bloodgood Maple's striking appearance makes it a versatile choice for various landscaping applications.

Accent Planting

• Use the Bloodgood Maple as a specimen tree in your garden or landscape. Its vibrant foliage and elegant form draw the eye, providing contrast and interest among other plantings.

Companion Planting

• Pair the Bloodgood Maple with other shade-tolerant plants, such as ferns, hostas, or azaleas, to create a lush and layered effect. The contrast between the maple's red leaves and the green foliage of its companions adds depth and visual appeal.

Container Gardening

• For those with limited garden space, the Bloodgood Maple can be grown in a large container. When a tree is grown in a container, it will grow smaller due to have a restricted root system (the bonsai effect). Therefore, you can enjoy this tree in smaller spaces. Ensure the container has adequate drainage and use a quality potting mix.