Acer Autumn Fire (Herbstfeuer) - Bare-Rooted
Notify MeAcer palmatum Autumn Fire (also known as Herbstfeuer) is a striking deciduous Japanese maple renowned for its intense seasonal colour. New foliage emerges a fresh green in spring before transitioning to vibrant orange-red in autumn, living up to its name with a fiery display. Its finely divided, palmate leaves and compact branching create a soft, elegant silhouette throughout the year.
Best grown in partial shade with well-draining, slightly acidic soil, Acer Autumn Fire is ideal for woodland, Japanese-inspired, or courtyard gardens. It benefits from protection from harsh wind and strong afternoon sun. At maturity, it forms a small, upright tree or large shrub reaching around 4 metres tall and 3.5 metres wide, offering graceful structure and brilliant autumn colour.
What is a bare-rooted tree?
Bare-rooted trees are deciduous trees that have been grown in the ground and are dug up when they've become dormant in the winter. The soil is shaken from their roots and they are bundled up with their roots packed in moist material to prevent dehydration during transport.
What are the benefits?
- Less packaging and plastic waste involved in growing process and transportation.
- Plant has more root mass as the roots have not been constricted and twisted by a pot.
- They are easier to carry and plant as they are extremely lightweight.
- Bare-rooted trees are cheaper as they do not come with soil and pots.
- Planting bare-rooted trees in the winter follows the natural pattern of the seasons.
Trimming: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to refine shape. Avoid heavy pruning and never trim during late summer or autumn, as this may stimulate new growth vulnerable to frost.
Fertilising: Apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertiliser in early spring to support healthy foliage and structure without promoting overly lush, frost-sensitive growth.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and throughout dry periods, especially during summer and early autumn when new growth and next season’s buds are forming. Avoid waterlogging and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Pest Control: Generally pest-free, though aphids and scale may occasionally appear on young growth. Treat infestations promptly with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to protect delicate foliage.
Disease Management: Susceptible to root rot and leaf scorch in poorly drained or overly exposed sites. Ensure well-drained soil, protect from strong wind and harsh afternoon sun, and water consistently to reduce stress-related disorders.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
