Japanese maple ‘Ice Dragon’ 80/100cm (11.5L)

The Japanese maple ‘Ice Dragon’ is a breathtaking deciduous hybrid that brings exceptional elegance and remarkable resilience to British gardens. This delicate-looking tree is a cross between Acer palmatum and Acer pseudosieboldianum, specifically bred by the renowned Iseli Nursery in the USA as part of their celebrated ‘Jack Frost’® series. What makes ‘Ice Dragon’ truly special is its ability to deliver all the refined beauty of traditional Japanese maples whilst withstanding harsh winter conditions that would challenge less hardy varieties.

The tree’s graceful, gently weeping habit creates a stunning architectural presence, with finely divided leaves that provide an ever-changing display throughout the seasons. In spring, the delicate foliage emerges in gorgeous shades of orange-red, creating an initial burst of warm colour that quickly matures to a fresh mid-green. This verdant summer canopy offers a cooling, tranquil effect in the garden, perfect for creating peaceful corners or serving as an elegant focal point.

Come autumn, ‘Ice Dragon’ truly lives up to its dramatic name with a spectacular finale of colour. The leaves transform into a kaleidoscope of yellows, oranges and reds, often displaying multiple hues simultaneously on the same tree. This extended autumn interest makes it an invaluable addition for gardeners seeking year-round appeal.

Growing Conditions and Care

This hybrid maple thrives in British conditions, appreciating a position in partial shade to full sun. Whilst it tolerates more exposure than typical Japanese maples, some shelter from harsh winds will protect the delicate foliage and maintain the tree’s elegant form. The wide, spreading habit means it needs adequate space to develop its full beauty.

Plant in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. ‘Ice Dragon’ prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions but proves more adaptable than many Japanese maples. Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, and continue watering during dry spells, particularly in summer.

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring, and mulch around the base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot. Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant.

‘Ice Dragon’ makes an outstanding specimen tree for medium to large gardens, equally at home in traditional cottage gardens, contemporary designs or oriental-inspired schemes. Its cold hardiness makes it particularly valuable for gardeners in northern regions or exposed locations where standard Japanese maples might struggle.

Ultimate height
4–8 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.