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Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
Acer palmatum 'Red Dragon'
Also known as : Palmate maple 'Red Dragon'
Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a spectacular ornamental tree that glows with crimson foliage. Its cascading branches form a delicately layered canopy that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. In autumn, the leaves turn a fiery red, offering a brilliant show before they drop. The tree can tolerate shade and is quite slow-growing, making it a perfect specimen tree for small gardens or patios.
Hardiness Zones
5 to 9
Care Guide for Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Watering Care
Drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering.
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Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
Sunlight
Full sun
Hardiness Zones
5 to 9
Key Facts About Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Attributes of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Bloom Time
Spring
Plant Height
4 m
Spread
4 m
Leaf Color
Red
Purple
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Purple
Red
Fruit Color
Purple
Stem Color
Red
Purple
Pink
Leaf type
Deciduous
Ideal Temperature
5 - 35 ℃
Scientific Classification of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Common Pests & Diseases About Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Common issues for Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' based on 10 million real cases
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Mealybug
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Plant dried up
The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.
Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.
Scars
Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.
Solutions: Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover. Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes. If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray. Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs. Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.
Mealybug
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Symptom Analysis
On Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', symptoms include white, cotton-like masses on leaves and stems, leaf yellowing, leaf drop, and overall plant vigor reduction.
What Causes Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Pests
Mealybugs are sap-sucking scale insects which drain the plant's nutrients.
How to Treat Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Non pesticide
Manual Removal: Physically remove mealybugs using a jet of water or a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Biological Control: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs to reduce mealybug populations.
Pesticide
Systemic Insecticides: Apply systemic insecticides that are absorbed by the plant and poison the mealybugs when they feed.
Contact Insecticides: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil, targeting visible mealybugs.
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Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Overview
Discolored spots on the foliage of plants are one of the most common disease problems people observe. These spots are caused by fungal and bacterial diseases, with most infections related to a fungal pathogen.
Brown spot can occurs on all houseplants, flowering ornamentals, vegetable plants, and leaves of trees, bushes, and shrubs. No plants are resistant to it, and the problem is worse in warm, wet environments. It can occur at any point in the life stage as long as leaves are present.
Small brownish spots appear on the foliage and enlarge as the disease progresses. In severe cases, the plant or tree is weakened when the lesions interrupt photosynthesis or cause defoliation.
Symptom Analysis
In most cases, brown spot only affects a small percentage of the whole plant, appearing on a small amount of the leaves. A small infection only puts minor stress on the plant. However, if left untreated and the disease progresses over numerous seasons, it will severely impact the health and productivity of the infected specimen.
- Sporulation begins (reproduction of the fungal spores), and tiny spots appear on leaves.
- Placement is often random and scattered as diseases are spread through raindrops.
- May appear on lower leaves and the interior of the plant where humidity is higher.
- Brown spots enlarge and grow large enough to touch neighboring spots to form a more prominent blotch.
- Leaf margins may turn yellow.
- Tiny black dots (fruiting bodies of the fungi) appear in the dead spots.
- Blotches grow in size until the entire leaf is brown.
- The leaf falls off the plant.
Severe Symptoms
- Partial or complete premature defoliation
- Reduced growth
- Increased susceptibility to pests and other diseases
Disease Cause
Brown spot, or leaf spot, is a common descriptive term given to several diseases affecting the leaves of plants and trees. Around 85% of diseases exhibiting leaf spots are due to fungus or fungus-like organisms. Sometimes brown spot is caused by a bacterial infection, or insect activity with similar symptoms.
When conditions are warm and the leaf surfaces are wet, fungal spores being transported by wind or rain land on the surface and cling to it. They do not rupture the cell walls but grow in the space between the plant plasma membrane and the plant cell wall. As the spores reproduce, they release toxins and enzymes that cause necrotic spots (i.e., dead tissue) on the leaves, allowing the fungi to consume the products released when the cells degrade.
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Plant dried up
The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.
Symptom Analysis
Your plant has dried out and turned brown. It might be starting to wilt, with no noticeable green around the stems and leaves. Touch the leaves, and they may crinkle under your fingers.
Possible causes of a dried out plant include:
- Not enough water. A lack of water will lead to dry plant tissue.
- Too much water. Watering too much can lead to root rot which makes the plant struggle to take up water. Rotted, mushy roots are a sign of overeating.
- Entering dormancy. As perennial plants enter their resting period known as dormancy, their leaves dry out and may fall off. This happens during decreasing day length.
- Exposure to herbicides and other toxic substances. If a plant is hit with a large dose herbicide or other toxic chemical, the plant will turn brown.
- Too much fertility. An excess of fertilizer can prevent plants from taking up water, leading to drying.
- Improper sun exposure. Just like humans, plants can get sunburn by intense, direct light. Plants can also dry out if they don’t receive enough light.
To determine whether the plant is still alive and can be saved, you can:
- Bend a stem. If the stem is pliable, the plant is still alive. If the stem breaks, the plant is dead.
- Gently scratch the stem with your fingernail for signs of green inside. If your plant is dead, the stem will be brittle and brown throughout.
- Cut the stems back a little bit a time for visible green growth. If none of the stems have visible green growth, the plant is dead.
Solutions
The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method.
- Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly.
- Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems.
- Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species.
- Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil.
- Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.
Prevention
Prevention involves providing your plant with the proper environment.
- Provide the proper amount of water. The amount of water depends on a plant’s size, species, and environment. A general rule is to allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Place plants in the proper environment. Provide the proper hours of sun and temperature for your individual plant.
- Provide proper fertility. Most plants only need to be fertilized once or twice a year; don’t overapply.
- Keep plants free from toxic substances. Keep herbicides and toxic household chemicals away from your plants.
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Scars
Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.
Symptom Analysis
Scars form when the plant repairs wounds. They can be the result of people or pets passing by and scraping the plant. Once the underlying issue is resolved, the plant will heal but a scar may remain.
Pests and pathogens can also cause scarring. Insects may attack the plant for a meal, resulting in extensive scarring when a few invaders turn into an infestation. Diseases such as fungus and bacteria can weaken the plant, causing brown spots, mushy areas, or blisters that lead to scars.
Scars occur on stems when a leaf or bud has been lost and the plant has healed. The harder tissue is like a scab that protects a wound.
On other occasions, scars can signal problems from environmental conditions, such as overexposure to sunlight or heat. It might surprise you to know that plants can suffer from sunburn, even desert dwellers like cactus!
Solutions
Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover.
- Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes.
- If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray.
- Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs.
- Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.
Prevention
Preventing some sources of scarring is easier than others, but all start with careful attention to your plants once you decide to bring them home.
- Review specific guidelines for your plant, including soil drainage, watering, and fertilizer requirements.
- Inspect plants before planting and use sterile pots and fresh potting soil or media to limit transfer of fungi or bacteria.
- Once established, check your plants regularly for signs of scarring or the presence of pests, as it is better to catch problems as early as possible.
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More Info on Japanese Maple 'red Dragon' Growth and Care
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Basic Care Guide
Common Pests & Diseases
Transplant
4-6 m
For japanese maple 'Red Dragon', the ideal transplanting windows are the refreshing embrace of early to late spring or the gentle decline of mid to late fall. Choose a location that offers dappled sunlight and well-drained soil to encourage robust growth. When relocating, gentle handling is paramount to preserve its delicate root system.
Transplant Techniques 
Pruning
Early spring, Late winter
Renowned for its fiery foliage and graceful form, japanese maple 'Red Dragon' thrives with careful pruning. Key techniques include removing dead or damaged branches, shaping for aesthetic balance, and thinning to enhance airflow. Optimal pruning times are late winter or early spring, before the sap starts flowing. Careful cuts prevent excess sap loss and safeguard against disease. Pruning benefits japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by promoting healthier growth, maintaining size, and accentuating its elegant structure.
Pruning techniques 
Propagation
Autumn,Winter
Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' thrives best when propagated through cuttings. Start by selecting a healthy, semi-hardwood stem. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node. To encourage root growth, dip the cutting's end in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Adequate moisture and warmth are crucial to facilitate rooting, hence place the stem in an environment with consistent humidity and indirect sunlight. Regular monitoring and care will ensure successful rooting and growth of japanese maple 'Red Dragon'.
Propagation Techniques Mealybug
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Read More
Wounds
Wounds on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' are physical damages often caused by mechanical injuries or pests. These lesions can be detrimental, leading to disease entry, unsightly appearance, and even death. They also expose the plant to fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
Read More
Stem blackening
Stem blackening in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a condition causing dark discoloration of stems, reduced vigor, and potential dieback. It's important for maintaining Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''s ornamental value and health.
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Interveinal yellowing
Interveinal yellowing in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is characterized by yellowing of leaf tissue between veins, which can lead to discolored, weakened foliage. This condition may affect growth and overall health.
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Spider mite
Spider mite infestation impacts Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing discoloration, leaf damage, and potentially severe defoliation. This common pest thrives in warm, dry conditions, reducing plant vigor and aesthetic value.
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Scars
Scars on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' are physical damages rather than a disease. These scars can disfigure the plant's appearance and expose it to pathogens, although they do not directly indicate a particular disease.
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Black mold
Black mold is a fungal infection that leads to significant aesthetic and physiological damage to 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''. Commonly seen as dark spots on foliage, it notably hinders photosynthesis and can stunt growth.
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Flower rot
Flower rot is a severe disease that affects the beautiful red Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing extensive damage to its leaves, flowers, and overall growth. This disease can be lethal if not treated appropriately, compromising the plant's overall health and appearance.
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Notch
Notch disease affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' leaves, causing distinct indentations and potentially impacting overall health. This guide covers identification, activity periods, treatment, and prevention.
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Leaf drooping
Leaf drooping in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' primarily stems from insufficient water supply or root distress. This condition weakens the plant, making it more susceptible to other stresses and impacts its ornamental value by causing leaves to sag and wilt.
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Lichen
Lichen is a symbiotic organism composed of fungi and algae, commonly found on trees including Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It's generally harmless but can signal undue stress or poor health in the host plant.
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Leaf blotch
Leaf blotch is a foliar disease that affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing discolored splotches on leaves and potential defoliation. Early identification and treatment are essential for the health of affected plants.
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Moss
Moss commonly infests damp and shady conditions, impacting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''s aesthetic and overall health. Overgrowth can result in stressed trees, making them prone to other issues.
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Non-base branch withering
Non-base branch withering is a disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', leading to premature leaf drop and branch dieback. Timely intervention is key to recovery.
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Flower withering
Flower withering is a disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing the early shedding and decay of blossoms, leading to a reduction in aesthetic and health. It may also impact photosynthesis and growth if severe.
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Scale insect
Scale insect disease affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and premature leaf drop. The infestation weakens the plant, making it more vulnerable to other pests and diseases.
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Weevil
Weevil is a pest causing damage primarily through larvae feeding on roots of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Leaves show browning and wilting due to root damage, affecting plant growth and vitality.
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Branch withering
Branch withering in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is characterized by the progressive death of branches, leading to decline in health and vigor. This can be triggered by a combination of environmental stressors, pathogens, and poor cultural practices.
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Whole leaf withering
Whole leaf withering is a condition that leads to the decline of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', characterized by drying and curling of leaves, potentially brought on by several factors, impacting its vitality and ornamental value.
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Leaf yellowing
Leaf yellowing in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a condition that typically indicates stress or disease, leading to discoloration and potential defoliation. It affects the ornamental value, health, and vigor of the plant.
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Leafhopper
Leafhoppers cause stippling, yellowing, and curling of leaves on the Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. These pests suck sap from the foliage, transmitting pathogens that may stunt growth and reduce overall plant health.
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Flower wilting
Flower wilting in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' manifests as a progressive decline in plant vigor, leading to drooping, discoloration of foliage, and eventually death if unchecked. This guide details its causes, symptoms, activity, treatments, infectiousness, and prevention strategies.
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Leaf white mold
Leaf white mold is a fungal disease that affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing white, cottony growth on its leaves. The plant's health deteriorates, often resulting in leaf yellowing and wilting. Serious cases may lead to plant death.
Read More
Whitefly
Whitefly is a common pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', leading to foliage discoloration and reduced vigor. These tiny insects feed on the sap, promoting the development of sooty mold on leaves.
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Dodder
Dodder is a parasitic plant that significantly impacts Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It attaches to the host, draining nutrients, which leads to reduced growth and potentially death of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'.
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Yellow edges
Yellow edges, a common disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', is exhibited by yellow discoloration along the leaf margins, affecting the plant's overall health and aesthetics. The disease is caused by nutritional imbalance and it reduces the vigor of the plant, making it susceptible to other diseases.
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Whole plant withering
Whole plant withering is a condition that causes widespread decline and eventual death of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It typically results from a combination of environmental stresses, disease, and pests, leading to the plant's inability to maintain necessary bodily functions.
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Leaf tip withering
Leaf tip withering is a disease that affects the tips of the leaves on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing them to dry out and turn brown. This stresses the plant, potentially affecting overall health and aesthetics.
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Leaf beetle
Leaf beetle is a common pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. These beetles chew on leaves, causing significant damage which may include holes and defoliation, potentially weakening the plant. Effective management strategies are essential to maintain the plant's health.
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Spots
Spots, a fungal disease, affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing spots or blotches generally surrounded by a yellow halo, drastically affecting its appearance. Early intervention is significant to control this moderately infectious and low-lethal disease.
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Dark spots
Dark spots disease, primarily caused by fungal pathogens, significantly impacts the aesthetic appeal and health of the Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It produces dark, necrotic spots on leaves, leading to premature leaf loss, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death.
Read More
Thrips
Thrips are tiny pests that impact Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by sucking sap, leading to leaf discoloration, deformation, and drop. Infestation results in stunted growth and can also cause aesthetic damage.
Read More
Aphid
Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that infest 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'', causing stunted growth, distorted leaves, and a decrease in overall health. The pest's activity peaks in warm, moist conditions.
Read More
Dark blotch
Dark blotch is a fungal disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', manifesting as dark spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and potential plant weakness.
Read More
Caterpillar
The 'Caterpillar' disease characterized by defoliation and damage particularly affects the aesthetic value and health of 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''. Without timely control, outcomes can range from severe stress to potential fatality in young plants.
Read More
Leaf wilting
Leaf wilting in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' obstructs the plant's ability to support its structure, leading to a loss of vigour. Caused primarily by inadequate water availability, fungal or bacterial infections, the condition can damage Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' if untreated.
Read More
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About
Care Guide
More Info
Pests & Diseases
More About How-Tos
Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
Acer palmatum 'Red Dragon'
Also known as: Palmate maple 'Red Dragon'
Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a spectacular ornamental tree that glows with crimson foliage. Its cascading branches form a delicately layered canopy that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. In autumn, the leaves turn a fiery red, offering a brilliant show before they drop. The tree can tolerate shade and is quite slow-growing, making it a perfect specimen tree for small gardens or patios.
Hardiness Zones
5 to 9
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Care Guide for Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Watering Care
Drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering.
Soil Care
Sand, Loam, Clay, Neutral, Alkaline
Ideal Lighting
Full sun, Partial sun
Ideal Temperature
5 to 9
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Key Facts About Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Attributes of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Bloom Time
Spring
Plant Height
4 m
Spread
4 m
Leaf Color
Red
Purple
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Purple
Red
Fruit Color
Purple
Stem Color
Red
Purple
Pink
Leaf type
Deciduous
Ideal Temperature
5 - 35 ℃
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Scientific Classification of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Common Pests & Diseases About Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'
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Common issues for Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' based on 10 million real cases
Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention
AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.
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Mealybug
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Learn More About the Mealybug ![more]()
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Learn More About the Brown spot ![more]()
Plant dried up
The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.
Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.
Learn More About the Plant dried up ![more]()
Scars
Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.
Solutions: Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover. Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes. If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray. Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs. Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.
Learn More About the Scars ![more]()
Mealybug
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Symptom Analysis
On Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', symptoms include white, cotton-like masses on leaves and stems, leaf yellowing, leaf drop, and overall plant vigor reduction.
What Causes Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Pests
Mealybugs are sap-sucking scale insects which drain the plant's nutrients.
How to Treat Mealybug Disease on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'?
Non pesticide
Manual Removal: Physically remove mealybugs using a jet of water or a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Biological Control: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs to reduce mealybug populations.
Pesticide
Systemic Insecticides: Apply systemic insecticides that are absorbed by the plant and poison the mealybugs when they feed.
Contact Insecticides: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil, targeting visible mealybugs.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Overview
Discolored spots on the foliage of plants are one of the most common disease problems people observe. These spots are caused by fungal and bacterial diseases, with most infections related to a fungal pathogen.
Brown spot can occurs on all houseplants, flowering ornamentals, vegetable plants, and leaves of trees, bushes, and shrubs. No plants are resistant to it, and the problem is worse in warm, wet environments. It can occur at any point in the life stage as long as leaves are present.
Small brownish spots appear on the foliage and enlarge as the disease progresses. In severe cases, the plant or tree is weakened when the lesions interrupt photosynthesis or cause defoliation.
Symptom Analysis
In most cases, brown spot only affects a small percentage of the whole plant, appearing on a small amount of the leaves. A small infection only puts minor stress on the plant. However, if left untreated and the disease progresses over numerous seasons, it will severely impact the health and productivity of the infected specimen.
- Sporulation begins (reproduction of the fungal spores), and tiny spots appear on leaves.
- Placement is often random and scattered as diseases are spread through raindrops.
- May appear on lower leaves and the interior of the plant where humidity is higher.
- Brown spots enlarge and grow large enough to touch neighboring spots to form a more prominent blotch.
- Leaf margins may turn yellow.
- Tiny black dots (fruiting bodies of the fungi) appear in the dead spots.
- Blotches grow in size until the entire leaf is brown.
- The leaf falls off the plant.
Severe Symptoms
- Partial or complete premature defoliation
- Reduced growth
- Increased susceptibility to pests and other diseases
Disease Cause
Brown spot, or leaf spot, is a common descriptive term given to several diseases affecting the leaves of plants and trees. Around 85% of diseases exhibiting leaf spots are due to fungus or fungus-like organisms. Sometimes brown spot is caused by a bacterial infection, or insect activity with similar symptoms.
When conditions are warm and the leaf surfaces are wet, fungal spores being transported by wind or rain land on the surface and cling to it. They do not rupture the cell walls but grow in the space between the plant plasma membrane and the plant cell wall. As the spores reproduce, they release toxins and enzymes that cause necrotic spots (i.e., dead tissue) on the leaves, allowing the fungi to consume the products released when the cells degrade.
Solutions
In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary.
Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading.
- Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear.
- Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread.
- Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Prevention
Like many other diseases, it is easier to prevent brown spot than cure it, and this is done through cultural practices.
- Clear fall leaves from the ground before winter to minimize places where fungi and bacteria can overwinter.
- Maintain good air movement between plants through proper plant spacing.
- Increase air circulation through the center of plants through pruning.
- Thoroughly clean all pruning tools after working with diseased plants.
- Never dispose of disease plant material in a compost pile.
- Avoid overhead watering to keep moisture off of the foliage.
- Keep plants healthy by providing adequate sunlight, water, and fertilizer.
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Plant dried up
The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.
Symptom Analysis
Your plant has dried out and turned brown. It might be starting to wilt, with no noticeable green around the stems and leaves. Touch the leaves, and they may crinkle under your fingers.
Possible causes of a dried out plant include:
- Not enough water. A lack of water will lead to dry plant tissue.
- Too much water. Watering too much can lead to root rot which makes the plant struggle to take up water. Rotted, mushy roots are a sign of overeating.
- Entering dormancy. As perennial plants enter their resting period known as dormancy, their leaves dry out and may fall off. This happens during decreasing day length.
- Exposure to herbicides and other toxic substances. If a plant is hit with a large dose herbicide or other toxic chemical, the plant will turn brown.
- Too much fertility. An excess of fertilizer can prevent plants from taking up water, leading to drying.
- Improper sun exposure. Just like humans, plants can get sunburn by intense, direct light. Plants can also dry out if they don’t receive enough light.
To determine whether the plant is still alive and can be saved, you can:
- Bend a stem. If the stem is pliable, the plant is still alive. If the stem breaks, the plant is dead.
- Gently scratch the stem with your fingernail for signs of green inside. If your plant is dead, the stem will be brittle and brown throughout.
- Cut the stems back a little bit a time for visible green growth. If none of the stems have visible green growth, the plant is dead.
Solutions
The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method.
- Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly.
- Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems.
- Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species.
- Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil.
- Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.
Prevention
Prevention involves providing your plant with the proper environment.
- Provide the proper amount of water. The amount of water depends on a plant’s size, species, and environment. A general rule is to allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Place plants in the proper environment. Provide the proper hours of sun and temperature for your individual plant.
- Provide proper fertility. Most plants only need to be fertilized once or twice a year; don’t overapply.
- Keep plants free from toxic substances. Keep herbicides and toxic household chemicals away from your plants.
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Scars
Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.
Symptom Analysis
Scars form when the plant repairs wounds. They can be the result of people or pets passing by and scraping the plant. Once the underlying issue is resolved, the plant will heal but a scar may remain.
Pests and pathogens can also cause scarring. Insects may attack the plant for a meal, resulting in extensive scarring when a few invaders turn into an infestation. Diseases such as fungus and bacteria can weaken the plant, causing brown spots, mushy areas, or blisters that lead to scars.
Scars occur on stems when a leaf or bud has been lost and the plant has healed. The harder tissue is like a scab that protects a wound.
On other occasions, scars can signal problems from environmental conditions, such as overexposure to sunlight or heat. It might surprise you to know that plants can suffer from sunburn, even desert dwellers like cactus!
Solutions
Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover.
- Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes.
- If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray.
- Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs.
- Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.
Prevention
Preventing some sources of scarring is easier than others, but all start with careful attention to your plants once you decide to bring them home.
- Review specific guidelines for your plant, including soil drainage, watering, and fertilizer requirements.
- Inspect plants before planting and use sterile pots and fresh potting soil or media to limit transfer of fungi or bacteria.
- Once established, check your plants regularly for signs of scarring or the presence of pests, as it is better to catch problems as early as possible.
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More Info on Japanese Maple 'red Dragon' Growth and Care
Basic Care Guide
Common Pests & Diseases
Mealybug
Mealybug is a pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Its infestation leads to stunted growth, discolored leaves, and deformation. The plant may exhibit slowed growth and be more susceptible to environmental stress.
Wounds
Wounds on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' are physical damages often caused by mechanical injuries or pests. These lesions can be detrimental, leading to disease entry, unsightly appearance, and even death. They also expose the plant to fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
Stem blackening
Stem blackening in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a condition causing dark discoloration of stems, reduced vigor, and potential dieback. It's important for maintaining Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''s ornamental value and health.
Interveinal yellowing
Interveinal yellowing in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is characterized by yellowing of leaf tissue between veins, which can lead to discolored, weakened foliage. This condition may affect growth and overall health.
Spider mite
Spider mite infestation impacts Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing discoloration, leaf damage, and potentially severe defoliation. This common pest thrives in warm, dry conditions, reducing plant vigor and aesthetic value.
Scars
Scars on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' are physical damages rather than a disease. These scars can disfigure the plant's appearance and expose it to pathogens, although they do not directly indicate a particular disease.
Black mold
Black mold is a fungal infection that leads to significant aesthetic and physiological damage to 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''. Commonly seen as dark spots on foliage, it notably hinders photosynthesis and can stunt growth.
Flower rot
Flower rot is a severe disease that affects the beautiful red Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing extensive damage to its leaves, flowers, and overall growth. This disease can be lethal if not treated appropriately, compromising the plant's overall health and appearance.
Notch
Notch disease affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' leaves, causing distinct indentations and potentially impacting overall health. This guide covers identification, activity periods, treatment, and prevention.
Leaf drooping
Leaf drooping in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' primarily stems from insufficient water supply or root distress. This condition weakens the plant, making it more susceptible to other stresses and impacts its ornamental value by causing leaves to sag and wilt.
Lichen
Lichen is a symbiotic organism composed of fungi and algae, commonly found on trees including Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It's generally harmless but can signal undue stress or poor health in the host plant.
Leaf blotch
Leaf blotch is a foliar disease that affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing discolored splotches on leaves and potential defoliation. Early identification and treatment are essential for the health of affected plants.
Moss
Moss commonly infests damp and shady conditions, impacting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''s aesthetic and overall health. Overgrowth can result in stressed trees, making them prone to other issues.
Non-base branch withering
Non-base branch withering is a disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', leading to premature leaf drop and branch dieback. Timely intervention is key to recovery.
Flower withering
Flower withering is a disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing the early shedding and decay of blossoms, leading to a reduction in aesthetic and health. It may also impact photosynthesis and growth if severe.
Scale insect
Scale insect disease affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and premature leaf drop. The infestation weakens the plant, making it more vulnerable to other pests and diseases.
Weevil
Weevil is a pest causing damage primarily through larvae feeding on roots of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. Leaves show browning and wilting due to root damage, affecting plant growth and vitality.
Branch withering
Branch withering in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is characterized by the progressive death of branches, leading to decline in health and vigor. This can be triggered by a combination of environmental stressors, pathogens, and poor cultural practices.
Whole leaf withering
Whole leaf withering is a condition that leads to the decline of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', characterized by drying and curling of leaves, potentially brought on by several factors, impacting its vitality and ornamental value.
Leaf yellowing
Leaf yellowing in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' is a condition that typically indicates stress or disease, leading to discoloration and potential defoliation. It affects the ornamental value, health, and vigor of the plant.
Leafhopper
Leafhoppers cause stippling, yellowing, and curling of leaves on the Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. These pests suck sap from the foliage, transmitting pathogens that may stunt growth and reduce overall plant health.
Flower wilting
Flower wilting in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' manifests as a progressive decline in plant vigor, leading to drooping, discoloration of foliage, and eventually death if unchecked. This guide details its causes, symptoms, activity, treatments, infectiousness, and prevention strategies.
Leaf white mold
Leaf white mold is a fungal disease that affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing white, cottony growth on its leaves. The plant's health deteriorates, often resulting in leaf yellowing and wilting. Serious cases may lead to plant death.
Whitefly
Whitefly is a common pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', leading to foliage discoloration and reduced vigor. These tiny insects feed on the sap, promoting the development of sooty mold on leaves.
Dodder
Dodder is a parasitic plant that significantly impacts Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It attaches to the host, draining nutrients, which leads to reduced growth and potentially death of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'.
Yellow edges
Yellow edges, a common disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', is exhibited by yellow discoloration along the leaf margins, affecting the plant's overall health and aesthetics. The disease is caused by nutritional imbalance and it reduces the vigor of the plant, making it susceptible to other diseases.
Whole plant withering
Whole plant withering is a condition that causes widespread decline and eventual death of Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It typically results from a combination of environmental stresses, disease, and pests, leading to the plant's inability to maintain necessary bodily functions.
Leaf tip withering
Leaf tip withering is a disease that affects the tips of the leaves on Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', causing them to dry out and turn brown. This stresses the plant, potentially affecting overall health and aesthetics.
Leaf beetle
Leaf beetle is a common pest affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. These beetles chew on leaves, causing significant damage which may include holes and defoliation, potentially weakening the plant. Effective management strategies are essential to maintain the plant's health.
Spots
Spots, a fungal disease, affects Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by causing spots or blotches generally surrounded by a yellow halo, drastically affecting its appearance. Early intervention is significant to control this moderately infectious and low-lethal disease.
Dark spots
Dark spots disease, primarily caused by fungal pathogens, significantly impacts the aesthetic appeal and health of the Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'. It produces dark, necrotic spots on leaves, leading to premature leaf loss, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny pests that impact Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' by sucking sap, leading to leaf discoloration, deformation, and drop. Infestation results in stunted growth and can also cause aesthetic damage.
Aphid
Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that infest 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon'', causing stunted growth, distorted leaves, and a decrease in overall health. The pest's activity peaks in warm, moist conditions.
Dark blotch
Dark blotch is a fungal disease affecting Japanese maple 'Red Dragon', manifesting as dark spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and potential plant weakness.
Caterpillar
The 'Caterpillar' disease characterized by defoliation and damage particularly affects the aesthetic value and health of 'Japanese maple 'Red Dragon''. Without timely control, outcomes can range from severe stress to potential fatality in young plants.
Leaf wilting
Leaf wilting in Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' obstructs the plant's ability to support its structure, leading to a loss of vigour. Caused primarily by inadequate water availability, fungal or bacterial infections, the condition can damage Japanese maple 'Red Dragon' if untreated.
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