crimson prince japanese maple

Why Choose Crimson Prince Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Crimson Princess')?

The Crimson Prince Japanese Maple is sought after for its deep wine-red to burgundy foliage, which emerges in spring and holds its colour through summer before amplifying into fiery scarlet tones in autumn. Its finely lobed leaves and graceful, arching branches combine to give the Crimson Prince a delicate, architectural presence in any garden setting.

This compact maple typically reaches 2 to 3 metres in height and width, making it ideal for urban gardens, courtyards, and patios. It’s equally at home in the ground or in large pots, and adds a lush, textural contrast alongside other ornamental trees like Acer freemanii 'Jeffersred' and Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple).

Planting and Care Advice

Crimson Prince Japanese Maple thrives best in a position with morning sun and dappled afternoon shade, where its delicate leaves are sheltered from harsh, drying winds and intense midday sunlight. Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Mulching helps keep roots cool and moist.

Water consistently during hot, dry spells, particularly while the tree establishes in its first few seasons. Avoid allowing it to dry out completely, but also prevent waterlogging. With minimal pruning requirements, just tidy any wayward or damaged branches in winter to maintain structure.

Landscape Uses

Versatile and compact, the Crimson Prince Japanese Maple is a wonderful choice for:

• Courtyard or urban gardens needing a splash of colour
• Feature planting in mixed borders
• Container planting for patios and entrances
• Highlighting Japanese or Asian-themed garden designs
• Underplanting with shade-tolerant perennials and groundcovers

Pairing your Crimson Prince with complementary trees like Acer 'Armstrong', Daphniphyllum macropodum, or Quercus acutissima can create a layered and dynamic planting scheme.

Discover More Maples and Ornamental Trees

If you love the vivid colour and refined form of Japanese maples, explore our extended range, including Acer saccharinum and Acer negundo 'Kelly's Gold'. Looking for something outside of the maple family? Our selection includes native stunners and international favourites such as Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa), Grevillea barklyana, and Eugenia uniflora (Surinam Cherry).

Elevate your garden with the timeless beauty and rich colour of a Crimson Prince Japanese Maple—perfect for adding a touch of Japanese elegance to any New Zealand landscape.