Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years
Public Plant Profile

Ruth's Red Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Ruth's Red' *SPECIMEN

Category: Deciduous Tree • Maple

Ruth's Red Japanese Maple features stunning red foliage, perfect for specimen planting in gardens.

Mature Height: 10-12 feet
Mature Width: 6-8 feet
Light: Part Sun/Part Shade
Zone: Zones 5-8
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Slow
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Ruth's Red Japanese Maple is a stunning ornamental tree known for its vibrant red foliage that changes throughout the seasons. It features a graceful, upright form and delicate, lobed leaves, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in partial shade to full sun. Prefers well-drained, moist soil with good organic content.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and is adaptable to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, to maintain healthy foliage.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or crossing branches.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

May be susceptible to aphids, leaf spot, and environmental stress if not properly cared for.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimen

Special Features

Vibrant red foliageattractive branching structure.

Wildlife Value

Attracts birds and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for focal points in gardens. Provides seasonal interest with its striking color.

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Use this page to get a feel for where Ruth's Red Japanese Maple may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Ruth's Red Japanese Maple a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

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