My first year growing Omato from a one gallon so it’s getting established in an area that receives direct sun from morning to late afternoon in compacted clay soil that was amended with pine bark soil conditioner, planted slightly above grade and mulched with cypress chips. Handles the heat better than most, no leaf burn, not a lot of height was added this year but it did become more dense. Resembling a full grown tree in miniature form. Habit reminds me of a large water oak! According to the instruction manual, the size will change and these get quite large. I’m looking forward to it. Held it’s red much longer than a Bloodgood, Red Spray and Fireglow near by in similar conditions. Constantly under attack by the clients of the neighborhood dog walkers, to no ill effect. Very hardy Acer for 8A.