The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Seigai Japanese maple

Family: Aceraceae (maple family)

Synonym: Acer palmatum 'Akaji nishiki', Acer palmatum 'Bonfire'

Distribution: Species native to e. Asia

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Deciduous tree

Comments: Seigai Japanese maple is a beautiful small tree, growing up to 12 ft. tall and wide. It is sometimes sold under the name 'Bonfire'. The leaves are red to dark pink in spring, turning bronze then green as summer warms up. Fall color is flame red. It has twiggy branching, which makes it a popular specimen for bonsai. It also does well as a container plant or accent specimen in the garden. This cultivar has been grown in Japan since at least 1710 and is often confused with other similar-looking cultivars.