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Japanese Maple 'Osakazuki': Famous for the Most Intense Crimson Fall Color

Japanese Maple Osakazuki

Osakazuki foliage

Osakazuki form

Osakazuki bark

Overview

Japanese Maple 'Osakazuki' (Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki') is legendary for producing what many consider the most intense, brilliant crimson fall color of any Japanese maple. Its large, green leaves (with a slight reddish tinge in spring) transform into a blazing, fluorescent crimson in autumn that seems to glow from within. A vigorous, upright, rounded tree that is a must-have for fall color enthusiasts.

Botanical Profile

Family: Sapindaceae (sap-in-DAY-see-ee)
Genus: Acer (AY-ser)
Species: Acer palmatum (pahl-MAY-tum)
Cultivar: 'Osakazuki'

Cultivation Guide

USDA zones 5-8. Prefers full sun to partial shade. Moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly. Best fall color develops with adequate moisture and sunny days/cool nights in autumn.

Garden Value

Plant as a specimen tree where its autumn display can be fully appreciated. A classic choice for Japanese gardens and autumn-focused landscapes.

Japanese Maples: Japanese Maple 'Bloodgood': The Classic Deep Red Landscape Standard; Japanese Maple 'Shaina': Compact Red Dwarf for Small Spaces; Japanese Maple 'Fireglow': Intense Red Upright for Small Gardens; Japanese Maple 'Atropurpureum': The Classic Red-Leaf Seedling Type; Japanese Maple 'Katsura': Spring Orange Splendor with Green Summer Foliage; Japanese Maple 'Kiyohime': Dwarf Spreading Habit for Bonsai and Containers; Japanese Maple 'Kinran': Golden-Veined Reticulated Foliage; Japanese Maple 'Japanese Sunrise': Coral Bark with Yellow-Green Summer Foliage; Japanese Maple 'Moonfire': Reliable Red Upright with Bronze Summer Tones; Japanese Maple 'Fjellheim': Dwarf Compact from Norway

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