Acer palmatum 'Bloody Talons' Japanese Maple

'Bloody Talons' is an exceptionally slow-growing dwarf cultivar reaching approximately 2 feet in height and width after 20 years. The deeply lobed leaves cup downward in a distinctive talon-like form, emerging in early spring with green hues mottled red and progressing to electric shades of red in fall, often displaying a striking two-tone green and red appearance before peak color. A selection by Talon Buckholz originating as a seedling from 'Amber Ghost', this cultivar characteristically develops a prominent bulge at the graft union. The tree requires excellent drainage and benefits from container cultivation or a slightly raised, well-draining garden site to prevent waterlogging.