Dragon Tears Japanese Maple

Light Needs

Mature Height

Mature Spread

Growing Zones

Dragon Tears Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Dragon Tears') is a semi-pendulous, slow-growing ornamental tree boasting spectacular year-round color and a distinctive form. Its deeply lobed leaves emerge crimson red in spring, deepen to burgundy through summer, and shift to bold orange, purple, and red tones in fall. The tree features strong horizontal branching with slightly weeping branch tips, giving it an open, sculptural appearance unlike typical upright Japanese maples. At maturity, Dragon Tears reaches 5 to 10 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide, an ideal size for smaller landscapes, patios, and containers.

This patented variety is a standout specimen tree anywhere a compact, colorful tree is needed. Its unique spreading and slightly contorted habit adds visual interest in every season. Dragon Tears is well suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8 and is relatively low maintenance once established. Its small stature also makes it an ideal candidate for container growing on a porch or deck.

Dragon Tears Japanese Maple Care

Grow Dragon Tears Japanese Maple in full sun to partial shade, providing afternoon shade in very hot climates to prevent leaf scorch. Choose a location with moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, and dig a hole one and a half times wider than the root ball, keeping the top of the root ball at ground level. Protect Dragon Tears from strong winds and avoid planting in areas with prolonged drought or excessive heat exposure, as Japanese maples prefer sheltered sites.

Water new plantings thoroughly and regularly during the first growing seasons until the tree is established; once settled in, water during dry spells to maintain consistent soil moisture. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the trunk. Feed Dragon Tears in early spring and again in early fall with an all-purpose or slow-release fertilizer, following label instructions.

Dragon Tears requires minimal pruning to maintain its naturally attractive shape. Remove any damaged, dead, or crossing branches as needed to keep the canopy open and healthy. If shaping is desired, prune during the summer months rather than in spring, as pruning too early can cause the tree to bleed sap. 

Dragon Tears Japanese Maple Spacing

Space Dragon Tears Japanese Maple trees 6 to 8 feet apart to allow for their full mature spread. This compact tree works beautifully as a specimen near patios, decks, or garden borders where its form and color can be fully appreciated. When planting in a container, choose a pot with good drainage and a diameter of at least 18 inches to support healthy root development. Avoid placing your tree in areas exposed to harsh afternoon sun, heavy winds, or reflected heat from walls and pavement.

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