Full Sun or Shade for a Crimson Queen Maple

Crimson Queen

• The cultivar "Crimson Queen" belongs to a group of ornamental red maples that are called dissected because its leaves are finely cut, with many divisions of graceful, serrated leaflets in each compound leaf. This variety's foliage is deep red when leaves first emerge in spring, then matures to a darker, purple-red in summer and turns bright red in fall. Overall, the tree grows to a height of about 8 or 10 feet when mature, spreading with graceful, arching branches to cover an area of 10 or 12 feet. "Crimson Queen" blooms in spring, producing attractive but small reddish flowers, followed by insignificant, winged fruits called samaras.

Sun

• "Crimson Queen" tolerates a spot that receives either full sun or partial shade, with the best location depending to some degree on climate. In areas with hot summer sun, planting the tree where it's in full sun in the morning, followed by partial shade in the afternoon hours, helps prevent scorching of its delicate foliage. In regions with cool summers, the tree does well and holds its bright colors in full sun. In the colder parts of its range, "Crimson Queen" can thrive in a sunny, warm spot, such as near a south- or west-facing wall of a building, where it's somewhat protected from winter cold. The tree leafs out early in spring, so choosing a warm planting site in these colder areas also helps protect its foliage from late-spring frosts.

Water and Soil

• This tree thrives when it receives regular, even moisture, although it can do well during dry spells once well established. During its first season, watering the tree weekly helps it establish a deep and extensive root system that's important for its future growth. "Crimson Queen" grows in any type of garden soil that's well-drained, but prefers a fertile loam. Adding some compost at planting can increase your soil's organic content and fertility. If your soil contains clay and drains slowly after a rain, mix in some fine sand to improve its drainage.

Other Care

• "Crimson Queen" is naturally graceful, but you can prune the tree to help control its size or remove damaged branches. You should only prune the tree during its winter dormancy because, like most maples, it bleeds sap profusely when cut during the growing season. Although this tree is usually pest- and disease-free, it can develop fungal problems such as wilt or leaf spot when grown in overly wet conditions. Choosing a spot with good air circulation, clearing debris from under the tree regularly and watering with a soaker hose or drip irrigation helps prevent these problems. The tree might also attract pests such as aphids or thrips, which can be controlled by spraying with insecticidal soap, diluted at a rate of 5 tablespoons per gallon.