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Bloodgood Japanese Maple

$19995 $29995
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Your Plants are Guaranteed to Grow

Your plants are guaranteed to arrive happy & healthy with our 1 Year Warranty. Your order will arrive healthy and stay healthy while they adapt to your climate. If your tree arrives damaged or dies within 30 days, we'll replace it for free. If it dies after 30 days, but before 1 year, we will replace it for just 50% of the current price.

Free Shipping on All Orders

Relax... we've got you covered with free shipping on every order! We ship out so many huge plants, we've negotiated a low rate with our carriers... and we pass those savings on to you! Your plants will ship out the next business day... expertly packed so that your plants will arrive happy and healthy!

Is Now a Good Time to Plant?

Yes! Fall is one of the best times to plant!

Landscaping experts often recommend planting in fall instead of waiting until spring. Here’s why:

  • Cooler weather puts less stress on newly planted trees and shrubs.
  • Fall soil is still warm, which helps roots grow and get established.
  • Cooler temperatures mean less water is lost through the leaves, making it easier for plants to stay hydrated.
  • Even after top growth slows for winter, roots continue developing below ground.
  • Fall weather often brings more rain and less heat, making new plants easier to care for.
  • By spring, your plants already have a head start. Their established roots can support strong new leaves, branches, and flowers.
  • Trees planted in spring must establish their roots while also dealing with rising temperatures and summer heat.

Plant this fall, and your trees can spend the cooler months getting settled instead of waiting until spring to get started!

Planting your Bloodgood Japanese Maple

Bloodgood Japanese Maple Planting Instructions:

  1. Site Selection & Soil Preparation: The Bloodgood Japanese Maple thrives in partial shade to full sun but performs best in areas where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend the soil with organic matter, like compost, to improve drainage and nutrient content if necessary. Avoid waterlogged or clay-heavy soils. Dig a hole slightly shallower than the root ball and about twice as wide. Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent water from collecting around the base.
  2. Spacing & Mulching: If planting multiple Bloodgood Japanese Maples, space them 10-15 feet apart to allow for their mature size and full canopy spread. After planting, apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (such as shredded bark or wood chips) around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. Mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
  3. Watering: Water the tree deeply after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. For the first few months, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on the weather and soil conditions, especially during dry spells. Adjust frequency to maintain moist, well-drained soil.

Bloodgood Japanese Maple Care Instructions:

  1. Watering During Establishment: During the first year, water the tree regularly to help it establish strong roots. Water deeply once a week or more frequently during hot or dry weather, ensuring that the soil remains evenly moist. Once established (after about a year), the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is relatively drought-tolerant but still benefits from deep watering during prolonged dry periods.
  2. Fertilization: The Bloodgood Japanese Maple does not require heavy fertilization. In early spring, apply a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for trees and shrubs (such as 10-10-10), or use a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants to maintain soil acidity. Over-fertilization can lead to weak growth and damage the tree, so use sparingly.
  3. Pest and Disease Monitoring: Bloodgood Japanese Maples are generally hardy, but they can sometimes suffer from pests like aphids, scale, or spider mites. Inspect the tree regularly for any signs of pests or damage, such as discolored or curling leaves. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary. Good air circulation around the tree helps prevent fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or root rot, which can occur in overly wet conditions.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care:

  1. Pruning: Bloodgood Japanese Maples require minimal pruning. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, focusing on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This helps maintain the tree's structure and encourages good air circulation. If necessary, lightly shape the tree by thinning crowded branches, but avoid heavy pruning as this can affect its natural graceful form.
  2. Watering and Drought Tolerance: Once established, Bloodgood Japanese Maples are relatively drought-tolerant, but they benefit from regular deep watering, especially during dry periods in summer. Ensure that the soil is moist but well-drained. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and protect the roots from heat.
  3. Winter Care: Bloodgood Japanese Maples are hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate cold winters. In colder climates, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree in late fall to help insulate the roots. If your area experiences harsh winter winds, consider protecting young trees with burlap or windbreaks to prevent winter burn or frost damage.
  4. Protecting from Sunscald: In hotter climates, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple may suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to too much intense afternoon sun. If possible, plant the tree in a location where it will receive some afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions. Keep the soil moist during hot spells to prevent stress on the tree.

Indoor and Container Gardening:

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple can be grown in containers, making it a good option for patios, decks, or smaller spaces. Choose a large container (at least 18-24 inches wide) with good drainage holes. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix, such as one designed for azaleas or camellias. Place the container in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, as intense afternoon heat can scorch the leaves.

Water the container-grown tree regularly, as pots dry out faster than ground soil. Ensure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. In colder climates, move the container to a sheltered location during winter, or insulate the pot to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Repot the tree every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and ensure healthy root growth.

By following these care instructions, your Bloodgood Japanese Maple will thrive, providing vibrant red foliage and a stunning focal point in your garden for many years to come!

What Customers say about the Bloodgood Japanese Maple:

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple thrives in Zones 5-8

Growing Zones for the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

If you live in the green area above, we recommend the Bloodgood Japanese Maple.

Your Growing Zone
Recommended Zones 5-8
Mature Height 15-20 ft.
Mature Width 12-15 ft.
Cannot Ship To AZ, OR
Sunlight Partial Shade
Botanical Name Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple thrives in Zones 5-8

Growing Zones for the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

If you live in the green area above, we recommend the Bloodgood Japanese Maple.

Your Growing Zone
Recommended Zones 5-8
Mature Height 15-20 ft.
Mature Width 12-15 ft.
Cannot Ship To AZ, OR
Sunlight Partial Shade
Botanical Name Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'

Plants that Make a Difference

For 20+ years, our team has shipped healthy, established plants to gardeners like you- all across the country. Every plant is selected and cared for by our plant experts before it ships to your door.

  • 20+ Years Experience

  • Superior Quality

  • Free Shipping on All Orders

  • Guaranteed to Grow

Beware- not all Bloodgood Japanese Maples are the same.

Be sure to get superior maple trees, grown by experts.

Better Roots Make Stronger Trees: Some nurseries send you "bare root" Japanese maples, so they can save on shipping. Even worse, others have started digging them right out of the ground before shipping. This causes major transplant shock and long-term damage. We send you Bloodgood Japanese Maples in large, soil-filled containers- ensuring a well-developed root system that will explode with vibrant growth and color!

Healthy Plants: We've seen other nurseries grow tall trees in tiny pots to save on shipping. This leads to a "root bound" tree, where the roots have outgrown their pot- they cannot absorb water and nutrients. They quickly dry out during shipment, leading to an unhealthy tree.

Red tree in a front yard with a house in the background

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple quickly became one of the most popular ornamental trees because of its bright red foliage.

  • The brightest tree you can find with bright red foliage from spring to fall!
  • Ideal size (matures to just 15 ft. tall) means it fits anywhere
  • Thrives in sandy soil, clay, or anything between. Even tolerates partial shade!
  • Easy to Grow- thrives almost anywhere in the country!

Not all plants are created equal

The Difference Is in the Roots

Every plant we ship has grown in a nursery container with its roots protected, so it arrives healthy, established and ready to thrive in your yard.

A full, branched Nationwide Plants tree in a nursery pot next to a thin bare-root tree with exposed roots Ours: container grown Theirs: bare root
Nationwide Plants compared with Other Nurseries
Nationwide Plants Other Nurseries
How it's grown Nationwide Plants: Grown in a nursery container, roots protected the whole time Other Nurseries: Pulled or dug from the field, tearing fragile roots
How it arrives Nationwide Plants: Arrives in its pot with soil intact Other Nurseries: Arrives bare root, exposed and drying out
Before shipping Nationwide Plants: Growing naturally until it ships Other Nurseries: Held dormant in a cooler, then shocked by a hot shipping box
Root health Nationwide Plants: Strong, well-developed roots with room to grow Other Nurseries: Crammed into a small pot until it's root bound
Height Nationwide Plants: Measured from the top of the soil Other Nurseries: Often includes the pot and roots
After planting Nationwide Plants: Settles in quickly with less transplant shock Other Nurseries: Arrives stressed and can take years to recover, if it does

The height you see is the height you plant.

We measure every plant from the top of the soil, not the bottom of the pot. Many nurseries include the pot and roots, so a "5–6 ft." tree from them might stand only 4 ft. tall once it's planted.

Comparisons reflect common practices across the online plant industry, not any single company.

Honest Measurements: Some nurseries measure trees including the pot and roots, so their "6-7 ft." tree may only be about three feet when planted. We measure all trees from the soil line, ensuring your tree reaches the promised height after planting.

From our nursery to your door

How We Ship Your Plants

Every order is hand-selected, watered and carefully packed so it arrives healthy and ready to plant. Here's what happens after you place your order.

  1. Step 1: Hand-Picked for You

    Our team selects the best plant available for your order. For privacy trees, that's the tallest and fullest. For fruit trees, it's the best branched.

    Why it matters: Many online nurseries ship whatever is next in the row.

  2. Step 2: A Deep Drink Before the Trip

    Every plant gets a thorough watering right before it's packed, so it starts the journey fully hydrated.

  3. Step 3: Roots Sealed In

    We wrap the pot and roots in plastic to lock in moisture, so your plant has water to drink all the way to your door.

    Why it matters: Bare-root plants are often shipped with their roots exposed and drying out.

  4. Step 4: Braced for the Ride

    Cardboard inserts are secured inside every box to hold your plant in place, so it won't slide, tip or get damaged in transit.

  5. Step 5: Shipped Only by FedEx

    We ship your trees exclusively with FedEx. We've found they deliver the fastest and handle live plants the most gently.

And if anything goes wrong, every plant is backed by our 1 Year Warranty.

Healthy Roots Make a Huge Difference

  • Never buy bare-root plants. These trees are starved of nutrients, and have a low survival rate.
  • Beware of nurseries cut corners by growing in small pots. These "rootbound" plants are weak, struggle to absorb nutrients, and die quickly after planting.
  • Some nurseries try to sell oversized plants, but chop off vital roots so they can cram the rootball into a narrow box to save on shipping!

You Want Bloodgood Japanese Maples Grown by Experts

Some nurseries end up shipping out tall but skinny Japanese Maples... because they were grown in tiny pots. This leads to "root bound" trees that end up dying shortly after you plant them.

Nationwide Plants only sends you strong Bloodgood Japanese Maples, grown in big pots with developed root systems. This means you get a vibrant tree that makes an immediate impact.

Close-up of vibrant red leaves from a Bloodgood Japanese Maple tree, with finely lobed, pointed edges. The sunlight highlights the rich red tones, creating a translucent effect that enhances the leaf veins and texture. The background is softly blurred, drawing focus to the delicate, vivid foliage and showcasing the maple's striking color.

Read more about the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

Bloodgood Japanese Maple- Bright Red Color

Transform your landscape with the unmatched elegance of the Bloodgood Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'). Celebrated for its vibrant, year-round color, this ornamental beauty instantly elevates any garden or outdoor space.

Key Features:

  • Striking deep red foliage from spring to fall
  • Ideal compact size (15-20 feet)
  • Easy to Grow in most of the country

Year-Round Spectacular Color

Watch in awe as delicate leaves burst forth in vibrant red each spring, deepening into a luxurious maroon throughout the summer. As autumn arrives, enjoy an unforgettable display of fiery scarlet leaves that set your garden ablaze with breathtaking color.

Perfect Size for Any Space

Reaching just 15 to 20 feet tall, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is ideally sized to fit beautifully in smaller gardens, patios, or courtyards, yet striking enough to anchor larger landscapes. Its graceful, rounded canopy provides gentle, dappled shade, creating a serene retreat in your yard.

Easy Care, Lasting Beauty

Gardening should be a joy, not a chore. The Bloodgood Japanese Maple thrives effortlessly in USDA zones 5-8. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil but can gracefully adapt to full sun in cooler climates. Requiring minimal pruning and moderate watering, it's the perfect low-maintenance choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

Versatile Landscape Enhancer

This tree is incredibly versatile—perfect as a stunning focal point, a serene companion near water features, or an elegant highlight in rock gardens. Wherever you plant it, your landscape will instantly benefit from its timeless appeal.

What Homeowners Say:

“This tree transformed our front yard—neighbors stop and ask what it is every fall.”
— M. Ramirez, Virginia

Why Choose Nationwide Plants?

  • Ships from a Southeast USA Nursery — hardened off and garden-ready
  • Protected by our Grow Guarantee
  • Fast shipping & premium packaging
  • Loved by gardeners across the country

History of the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

The Bloodgood Japanese Maple has a rich heritage tracing back to Japan, where the Acer palmatum species has been cultivated for centuries. Japanese gardeners and bonsai masters have long prized these trees for their delicate, lace-like leaves and stunning seasonal color changes. The Bloodgood variety, specifically, was introduced to the U.S. in the early 20th century and quickly became one of the most popular red-leaf maples thanks to its hardiness, vibrant color, and elegant form.

Facts About the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

  • Name Origin: The name Bloodgood comes from the Bloodgood Nursery in Long Island, New York, where this cultivar was first propagated in the 1950s.
  • Cultural Significance: In Japanese culture, maples symbolize peace, serenity, and balance, making them a frequent feature in Zen gardens and temples.
  • Leaf Shape Meaning: The distinct five to seven-lobed leaves are thought to resemble an open hand, symbolizing welcoming and openness in many cultures.
  • Wildlife Friendly: While admired for its beauty, the tree also provides shelter for birds and supports local ecosystems, all while being deer-resistant!
  • Bonsai Favorite: Though it can grow up to 20 feet tall, the Bloodgood Japanese Maple is also a popular choice for bonsai cultivation, prized for its delicate branching and stunning foliage.

Ready to Add Timeless Elegance to Your Garden?

Order your Bloodgood Japanese Maple today from Nationwide Plants and enjoy fast, secure free shipping directly to your doorstep. Your beautiful landscape upgrade awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions about the Bloodgood Japanese Maple

How big does a Bloodgood Japanese Maple get?

A Bloodgood Japanese Maple typically reaches 15 to 20 feet tall and 12 to 15 feet wide at maturity, with a graceful, rounded canopy. Its compact size makes it an ideal focal point for small yards, patios, courtyards, and entryways, while still standing out in larger landscapes.

How fast does a Bloodgood Japanese Maple grow?

Bloodgood Japanese Maples have a slow to moderate growth rate, usually adding about 1 to 2 feet per year once established. Starting with a larger, well-rooted potted tree, like the container-grown Bloodgood Japanese Maples from Nationwide Plants, gives you more impact in your landscape right away.

Does a Bloodgood Japanese Maple stay red all year?

Yes. Bloodgood Japanese Maple leaves emerge bright red in spring, deepen to a rich burgundy-maroon through summer, and turn a brilliant scarlet in fall. For the best red color, plant it where it gets morning sun; too much shade can cause the leaves to turn greenish-bronze in summer.

How much sun does a Bloodgood Japanese Maple need?

Bloodgood Japanese Maples grow best in partial shade, ideally with morning sun and afternoon shade. They can handle full sun in cooler climates, but in hot regions intense afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, so some afternoon shade is recommended.

What growing zones do Bloodgood Japanese Maples grow in?

Bloodgood Japanese Maples are cold hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. In colder zones, a thick layer of mulch around the base in late fall helps insulate the roots, and young trees benefit from protection against harsh winter winds.

What type of soil does a Bloodgood Japanese Maple need?

Bloodgood Japanese Maples prefer moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Mix compost into heavy clay or poor soil to improve drainage, avoid spots where water collects, and plant with the top of the root ball slightly above ground level.

How often should I water a newly planted Bloodgood Japanese Maple?

Water deeply right after planting, then water deeply 1 to 2 times per week during the first year, more often in hot or dry weather. Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Once established, the tree is fairly drought tolerant but still benefits from deep watering during long dry spells.

How far apart should I plant Bloodgood Japanese Maples?

Space Bloodgood Japanese Maples 10 to 15 feet apart to allow room for their mature canopy. When planting near a house, fence, or walkway, allow at least 6 to 8 feet so the branches can spread naturally without heavy pruning.

Can a Bloodgood Japanese Maple grow in a container?

Yes. Bloodgood Japanese Maples grow well in large containers on patios and decks. Use a pot at least 18 to 24 inches wide with drainage holes and an acidic, well-draining potting mix. Water more often than in-ground trees, give afternoon shade, protect the pot from hard freezes, and repot every 2 to 3 years.

When should I prune a Bloodgood Japanese Maple?

Prune Bloodgood Japanese Maples in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. They need very little pruning: simply remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and lightly thin crowded growth. Avoid heavy pruning, which can spoil the tree's naturally graceful shape.