The coral-bark Japanese maple is a magical tree. Named for its gorgeous red bark, it offers a stellar all-season show, from the crimson of said bark providing a bright spot in the winter months, to the light green foliage of early spring, the deeper green of high summer, and this brilliant fall finale. On sunny autumn days, it absolutely glows, resplendent against a blue sky, and during darker spells it illuminates whatever corner is lucky enough to house its beauty. The coral aspect of the bark is most pronounced in its first few years, so pruning is beneficial not only to keep its size in check, but to stimulate new stem growth.
