Red Dragon Smooth-leaf Maple. Mark Weathington, director of the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, NC, collected seed of this species in Taiwan. From numerous seed germinations, this one was selected for its outstanding burgundy red new growth. It is evergreen and has grown outside in Raleigh since 2012 with some slight burning to its leaves in the coldest winters. In the upper reaches of its range, I would suggest growing it with some protection, such as part shade or against a wall. In the Arctic Blast of Christmas, 2022, our stock plant was outside in a 15 gallon container, and it was completely defoliated but the wood wasn't hurt. It is very fast growing with each flush of new growth showing the vivid red color. These plants that we offer are on their own roots from rooted cuttings.
Zones 7-9
