The Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku' (Coral Bark Maple) is a large deciduous shrub or small tree celebrated for its stunning year-round visual interest. The delicate five-lobed leaves emerge pinkish-yellow in spring, mature to light green during summer, then transform to soft golden-yellow in fall before revealing the tree's signature feature: brilliant coral-red bark on young twigs and branches that provides exceptional winter color.

This upright, vase-shaped cultivar grows moderately to reach 20-25 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide over time. 'Sango Kaku' means "coral-colored tower" in Japanese, perfectly describing its distinctive bark that becomes especially vibrant in cool temperatures and creates a striking contrast against winter snow. The tree earned the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit in 1993 for its exceptional ornamental qualities and four-season interest.

The coral bark maple thrives in full sun to partial shade in organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils with consistent moisture. Best leaf color develops in partial shade, though full sun can be tolerated. This low-maintenance specimen requires little pruning and makes an outstanding focal point for cottage gardens, city gardens, Japanese gardens, or large containers. Hardy in zones 5-9, it provides a spectacular addition to any landscape where architectural interest and seasonal color are desired.