Bloodgood

Character & interest

‘Bloodgood’ is one of those “cornerstone” cultivars: a stable silhouette, clear colour, and an easy presence to integrate into a restrained garden. The foliage is cut (fine lobes) but remains “classic” in overall appearance, which makes it very versatile.

Colours

• Spring : deep purple-red.

• Summer : burgundy / purple; it can lighten or shift greener in very hot, dry conditions.

• Autumn : bright red (often clear and strong).

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, becoming more rounded with age; dense branching, well-balanced silhouette. Steady vigour.

Indicative size

Order of magnitude: around 3 m at 10 years, then 4–6 m at maturity depending on conditions (soil, climate, training). Spread can become similar to the height.

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade; it readily tolerates full sun in most regions. Colour is often better with good light, but protection from scorching sun and drying winds improves foliage quality and reduces summer leaf marking.

Origin & history

Cultivar distributed under the name of Bloodgood Nursery (Long Island, New York) and widely planted for a long time.