Acer palmatum 'Fireglow'Japanese maple

Selected by Fratelli Gilardelli, in Italy, around 1970, ‘Fireglow’ — also known as ‘Effegi’ — grows as a large shrub or small tree. It forms an upright, densely branched and progressively ovoid crown, reaching approximately 4 to 6 metres in height and 3 to 5 metres in spread.

The leaves have five to seven narrow, pointed lobes, less deeply divided than those of ‘Bloodgood’. They emerge reddish-pink in spring and turn dark red, sometimes with dark green glints, during the summer. In autumn they take on more intense red-purple tones.

The main quality of the cultivar is revealed when sunlight passes through the leaves. The thickness and pigmentation of the blade turn the dark red into a luminous scarlet, creating a visual effect very different from the more opaque look of other purple maples. Small reddish flowers are followed by red samaras.

It prefers bright partial shade or gentle sun and fertile, moist, well-drained soil. A position with morning sun or side light favours both the colour and the transparency of the crown. In Portugal it should be protected from dry wind and strong afternoon sun, with regular watering maintained during establishment.

It is suited to entrances, courtyards, small gardens and compositions where the tree can be seen against the light. Placing it to the west of a path or seating area makes the most of the glow of the leaves at the end of the day. A mature specimen from Diaplant immediately brings a crown with enough volume to produce this luminous effect at the scale of the project.