Acer palmatum ‘Red Emperor’ is a deciduous cultivar with finely serrated leaves that emerge bright red in spring, mature to purple during summer, and then display a stunning red again in the fall. Its upright, spreading growth habit makes it a suitable choice for smaller gardens. This cultivar thrives in moist and well-drained soils, but excessive sun, wind, and drought can cause leaf scorch. It is cold-hardy and also well-suited for bonsai cultivation.