Acer palmatum 'Red Spray' Japanese Maple

'Red Spray' is an upright Japanese maple with bright red spring foliage that transitions to maroon tones during summer, then develops green-red coloration by late summer before turning crimson in fall. The cultivar reaches 10-12 feet in height over ten years, growing approximately one foot annually. According to the growers at Mr Maple, 'Red Spray' originated when Gary Handy selected seedlings from his breeding stock for their exceptionally bright red coloration, which stands noticeably more vivid than typical red upright cultivars even among similar varieties. Full sun exposure enhances and sustains the intensity of spring color, making this cultivar valuable for providing bold color contrast in predominantly green landscapes.