Sango Kaku: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for a unique and vibrant addition to your garden or landscape? Look no further than the sango kaku tree! Also known as the coral bark Japanese maple, this stunning tree is prized for its bright red bark and delicate, lacy leaves. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about sango kaku, from its history and origins to its care and maintenance.

Sango Kaku: The Basics

Sango kaku (Acer palmatum 'Sango kaku') is a variety of Japanese maple that is native to Japan. It is a relatively small tree, reaching heights of 15-25 feet at maturity, with a spread of around 20 feet. The most distinctive feature of the sango kaku is its bright red bark, which is especially striking in the winter months when the leaves have fallen off. The leaves themselves are delicate and lacy, with a pale green color in the spring and summer, turning yellow in the fall.

The History of Sango Kaku

The sango kaku Japanese maple has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was first cultivated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868) and quickly became a favorite among gardeners and landscapers. The name "sango kaku" means "coral tower" in Japanese, which refers to the vibrant red color of the bark. Today, sango kaku is a popular ornamental tree around the world, prized for its beauty and easy maintenance.

How to Care for Sango Kaku

Sango kaku is a relatively low-maintenance tree, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gardeners alike. Here are some tips to help you care for your sango kaku tree:

1. Planting Sango Kaku

When planting your sango kaku tree, choose a location that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. Make sure to dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the root ball, but not so deep that the crown of the tree is submerged.

2. Watering Sango Kaku

Sango kaku requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. A layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

3. Fertilizing Sango Kaku

Fertilize your sango kaku tree in the spring and fall with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the leaves to burn and damage the tree.

4. Pruning Sango Kaku

Prune your sango kaku tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. You can also prune for shape and size, but be careful not to remove too much foliage, as this can stress the tree.

5. Pests and Diseases

Sango kaku is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and verticillium wilt. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or disease, and treat accordingly with insecticides or fungicides.

Landscaping with Sango Kaku

Sango kaku is a versatile tree that can be used in a variety of landscaping settings. Here are some ideas for incorporating sango kaku into your garden or landscape:

1. Accent Tree

Plant a sango kaku tree as a focal point in your garden or landscape. Its vibrant red bark and delicate leaves are sure to catch the eye and add interest to any space.

2. Privacy Screen

Create a natural privacy screen by planting several sango kaku trees in a row. Their dense foliage and relatively small size make them an excellent choice for this purpose.

3. Container Planting

Sango kaku is well-suited for container planting, making it an ideal choice for patios, decks, and other outdoor living spaces. Just make sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root ball, and keep the soil consistently moist.

Sango Kaku: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How fast does sango kaku grow?

Sango kaku is a relatively slow-growing tree, typically growing around 12-18 inches per year.

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However, this can vary depending on factors such as soil quality, sunlight, and water availability.

2. When is the best time to prune sango kaku?

The best time to prune sango kaku is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

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This allows the tree to recover from pruning and begin producing new growth in the spring.

3. How often should I fertilize my sango kaku tree?

Fertilize your sango kaku tree in the spring and fall with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

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Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the tree and cause the leaves to burn.

4. Why is my sango kaku tree losing its leaves?

Sango kaku trees may lose their leaves for a variety of reasons, including lack of water, too much sun, or pest infestations.

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Make sure to keep your sango kaku tree well-watered and protected from direct sunlight, and treat any pest infestations promptly.

5. Can sango kaku be grown in containers?

Yes, sango kaku is well-suited for container planting. Just make sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root ball, and water consistently.


In sango kaku is a beautiful and versatile tree that can add color and interest to any garden or landscape. With proper care and maintenance, your sango kaku tree can thrive for years to come. Whether you're looking for a privacy screen, accent tree, or container plant, sango kaku is a great choice.