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Maple
Hefner's Red
Acer palmatum
A red-leaved Japanese maple selection valued for holding a deep, rich red foliage color through much of the growing season rather than fading to green or bronze in summer heat, as many red cultivars tend to do. The color intensifies further into a vivid crimson display in autumn.
Growing Specifications
- Height
- Variable with age and site conditions
- Spread
- Variable with age and site conditions
- Watering
- Moderate; consistent moisture during establishment
- Light
- Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Heat Tolerance
- Good; red-leaved cultivars that hold color in heat generally tolerate more direct sun than green cultivars
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Soil Requirement
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil
North Texas Micro-climate Notes
Red-foliage cultivars that hold their color well in heat are generally more forgiving of North Texas full sun exposure than green or variegated maples, though a consistent mulch layer still helps through the hottest summer stretches.
Care Instructions
Plant in loose, well-amended, slightly acidic soil. Provide consistent moisture through the growing season. Prune minimally, removing only dead or crossing wood during dormancy.
Landscape Usage
Effective as a color anchor in a mixed border, a focal specimen against a lighter-toned backdrop, or paired with green-foliaged conifers for contrast.
