Coral Bark Japanese Maple Tree

Coral Bark Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’, combines seasonal foliage color with coral-toned young bark that stands out after leaf fall. It is a deciduous small tree valued as much for its winter stems as for its spring and autumn foliage. ## Landscape use and seasonal interest Use it as a specimen where its branching and winter bark can be seen. Cambridge University Botanic Garden reports that new leaves have a pink flush, become pale green as summer progresses, and turn yellow to gold in autumn. Coral color on young stems adds winter interest; see the [Cambridge plant entry](https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/the-garden/plant-list/acer-palmatum-sango-kaku/). ## Mature size and siting Missouri Botanical Garden lists a typical mature size of 20–25 ft tall and 15–20 ft wide, while other references give broader ranges. Choose a site with room for a spreading crown. It grows in full sun to partial shade; partial shade can help maintain leaf color and reduce scorch in hot, dry conditions. See the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/56417/acer-palmatum-sango-kaku-p/details) and [Missouri Botanical Garden listing](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d356). ## Soil and water Provide moist, well-drained soil. Water during dry summer weather and mulch to keep the root zone evenly moist. ## Maintenance Avoid letting the root zone dry out for extended periods. Prune selectively when needed, allowing natural branching and colored young stems to remain visible.