Description Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’ – Narrow-Leaved Japanese Maple Elegant Thread-Like Foliage with Rich Burgundy Tones and Compact Growth Habit Botanical Name: Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’ Common Name: Red Pygmy Japanese Maple Origin: Cultivar of Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) – Japan Description: Acer ‘Red Pygmy’ is a striking, slow-growing deciduous maple prized for its finely dissected, strap-like foliage and rich seasonal colour. This elegant cultivar features narrow, linear leaves that emerge deep burgundy-red in spring, retain warm reddish-bronze tones through summer, and shift to vibrant orange and crimson hues in autumn. Its compact, upright growth habit with a naturally rounded shape makes ‘Red Pygmy’ an excellent choice for small gardens, courtyards, bonsai, or as a standout feature in Japanese or woodland-style plantings. The fine texture of the foliage offers a soft, graceful contrast to broader-leaved plants and is particularly eye-catching when backlit. ‘Red Pygmy’ performs best in cool to temperate climates and benefits from a sheltered position away from strong wind and harsh afternoon sun. It is well-suited to containers, raised beds, or shaded feature plantings where its form and colour can be appreciated up close. Specifications: • Mature Height: 2 – 3 metres • Mature Width: 2 – 3 metres • Growth Habit: Upright, rounded, compact form • Foliage: Narrow, strap-like lobes; red in spring, bronze in summer, orange to scarlet in autumn • Leaf Type: Linear-lobed (dissected), fine texture • Deciduous: Yes • Flowers: Small, red-purple (inconspicuous) in spring • Bark: Smooth, greyish-brown Position & Uses: • Sun Requirements: Dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon protection • Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils – slightly acidic preferred • Uses: • Feature or specimen tree • Small garden accent • Containers and courtyard planting • Japanese or woodland gardens • Bonsai Care & Maintenance: • Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots • Water regularly, especially during dry periods • Prune lightly in winter to maintain form if required • Protect from hot winds and late spring frosts Climate Suitability: • Best in cool to temperate zones • Frost-tolerant • Not suitable for exposed, dry or high heat locations Key Features: • Unique narrow, ribbon-like foliage • Compact size ideal for small gardens • Excellent seasonal colour • Graceful form with year-round interest Add fine texture and rich seasonal colour to your landscape with Acer palmatum ‘Red Pygmy’, now available at Blerick Tree Farm.
