Acer palmatum 'Fireball'

Also Known As

Fireball Japanese Maple

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

H: 4'-6'
W: 3'-5'

planting zones

6a-9b

More Options

Acer palmatum 'Fireball' plant details

Acer palmatum 'Fireball' is a broadleaf deciduous shrub or tree with red foliage. Attracts beneficial insects and birds. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Acer palmatum 'Fireball'

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: sapindaceae
Foliage: deciduous red
Mature size: 3 FT - 5 FT - wide, 4 FT - 6 FT - tall
Uses: bonsai, container plant, fall color, small tree, woodland garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Acer palmatum 'Fireball'

USDA Zones: 6a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Resistant to: humidity
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This fabulous, miniature, 8-10' shrub-like tree has diminutive leaves which emerge a vivid wine-red in the spring. With at least 5 hours of sunlight per day, they will hold their fantastic color all summer long (less-light will cause dark-green foliage). In the fall, the foliage lets you know why it is called 'Fireball'; as it bursts into flaming scarlet red! A delightful witch's broom that is perfect for container gardening. S-PSh/M

By: Forestfarm

Acer palmatum Fireball is another new Japanese Maple for our nursery. This could be a dwarf/miniature ‘Fireglow’, but more shrub-like. Small leaves are deep purple-red with fiery red and purple in fall. Discovered as a witch’s broom from a red leaf cultivar. Prefers all day sun, but some shade is acceptable. Good drainage is a must for all maples. In 10 years Fireball may reach 4′ tall x 3′ wide. Once established this maple is hardy to -10 degrees USDA zone 6. If you are looking for a small maple as a focal point in your garden – this little cutie will not disappoint. And with the sun shining on it’s leaves this maple is a real-time fireball. Collector’s must.

By: Eastfork Nursery

Deeply divided 5-lobed red leaves. A witches'-broom found by David Verkade of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. Photo taken in early May.

By: Bloom River Gardens

A very cute dwarf Japanese Maple. Small leaves are deep purple-red with fiery red and purple in fall. Very cute! Originated as a witchs broom.

By: Maplestone Ornamentals

Fireball is a wonderful bright red dwarf with deeply incised 5 lobed leaves. A new favorite of mine.

By: Whitman Farms

DWARF, red. This cultivar has small, five-lobed leaves that are deeply divided. It came from a witches' broom found by David Verkade of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. A nice plant for any collection.