Fireglow

Character & interest

‘Fireglow’ is often chosen when you want an intense red that is more “reliable” than a classic red that greens up quickly in summer. It combines a nicely upright silhouette with foliage that can look flame-like when lit from behind. Several descriptions compare it to ‘Bloodgood’: similar in spirit, but often considered redder in tone and with leaves that are less deeply lobed.

Colours

• Spring : young leaves pink-red / bright red.

• Summer : dark red / burgundy, sometimes described as very dark green strongly “washed” with red depending on sources and exposure.

• Autumn : bright red (sometimes purple-red depending on conditions).

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, bushy at first then forming a small tree. Good to moderate vigour, with steady growth.

Indicative size

As a guide: around 2.5 to 3 m at about 10 years depending on conditions, then often ~4 m ultimately in many gardens, with specimens that can grow taller in the ground and in favourable conditions.

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade. ‘Fireglow’ is often presented as more tolerant of sun and heat than many red Japanese maples, but protection from scorching sun (afternoon) and dry wind is still preferable—especially in a pot—to keep the foliage impeccable.

Origin & history

‘Fireglow’ is a selection made by the Fratelli Gilardelli nursery (Italy, Agrate Brianza, near Milan).