Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple)
IntermediateAcer palmatum 'Sango-kaku'
A maple whose young shoots turn brilliant coral in autumn and winter. Only first- and second-year growth colours; older wood fades. The red twigs after leaf fall are the highlight, and it is sold both as bonsai and as a garden tree.
About
Sango-kaku is a Japanese maple cultivar whose name is said to mean 'coral pillars'. According to Oregon State University, the bark of young stems turns brilliant coral in autumn and winter; as branches mature the colour is lost, so only first- and second-year growth shows the rich coloration. The leaves are 4–5 cm long with 5–7 doubly serrate lobes; new leaves are reddish, light green in summer and yellow to light red in autumn. The natural habit is upright and twiggy, reaching 6–7.5 m. A Japanese tree guide lists it among cultivars derived from yama-momiji. Winter twig colour is the key identifier: once the leaves drop, its red framework is unlike any other maple. In bonsai it is grown for its winter silhouette, and since colour is brightest on young wood, continually renewing shoots by pruning helps keep it vivid. It is reported to be highly susceptible to bacterial blight (Pseudomonas syringae), so watch for shoot tips blackening and dying back. Besides bonsai material, large plants are sold as garden trees.
Size of the Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple)
The Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple) grows to Upright, 6–7.5 m in the ground (bonsai: shohin to medium).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (maple cultivar; introduced to Europe via an Irish nursery)
Lifespan
Little data for the cultivar
Size
Upright, 6–7.5 m in the ground (bonsai: shohin to medium)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (spring and autumn, sparingly)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sun to part shade, sheltered from strong wind. Shade in summer against scorch; give full light from autumn to bring out twig and leaf colour
Watering
Dries fast once in leaf: about twice daily in spring, 2–3 in summer, every 1–2 days in winter, aiming at the soil. Summer drought spoils autumn colour
Temperature & overwintering
Cold-hardy (USDA zone 5). Winter is its display season; shelter from drying wind and late frost
Soil & repotting
Free-draining mix; repot around March before budbreak, every 2–3 years (1–2 for mini), pruning roots to encourage fine feeders
Fertilizer
Organic fertilizer in mid-April once leaves harden, a top-up in May; autumn feeding from mid-August, finishing in September to aid colour
Pruning & styling
Colour is brightest on 1–2-year wood, so cut back older shoots around leaf fall to keep renewing growth. Pinch mid-March to mid-April
Pests & cautions
Reported to be highly susceptible to bacterial blight—remove blackened, dying shoots early and keep tools clean. Also watch for aphids and powdery mildew
Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple)?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple) get?
The mature size of Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple) is Upright, 6–7.5 m in the ground (bonsai: shohin to medium). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple)?
Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple): watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (spring and autumn, sparingly). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple)?
The price of Sango-kaku (coral-bark maple) varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. Not a registered variety under the Plant Variety Protection Act (no entry for 'Sango-kaku' in the MAFF database, checked Sept 2026).
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search) / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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