Silhouette of red stems in winters. Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku' is an upright, vase-shaped deciduous tree to 15 to 18 feet with distinctive red stems that are most notable on juvenile growth and a sought-after feature for winter interest. Fall color is yellow. In northern part of its range, it will tolerate afternoon sun, but otherwise it’s best in part shade and protected from hot afternoon sun which may burn its foliage.