Thanks. I actually already have a Fireglow in the ideal placement you note above. I'd definitely check the website for suggestions though.

Here's another link to help you out - sun tolerant JM varieties also tend towards heat tolerance to some degree. Of course, deep watering regularly during the hottest part of the year is advised.

Note that even most lists of very sun tolerant and heat tolerant JM's suggest providing some shade during the hottest part of the day, generally from noon to 2pm at a minimum.

Here is a link that might be useful: sun tolerant JM's

With the space you have I'd recommend Seiryu, Osakazuki, Summer Gold, acer shirasawanum Jordan or Shishigashira.

All of these have handled the sun excellently here in North Florida. Good luck!

Agree with gardengal48. We have Fireglow and it is standout. For instance, compared to Bloodgood and Red Emperor, it stands out because light comes through the leaves to bathe you and the ground in red light. They indeed glow! Distinctive upright semi-symmetrical shape too, not just a rounded glob.

I'm in Zone 6A which is not nearly as warm as Alabama but I have a Seiryu in direct afternoon sun and it takes the heat like a champ. We had a very dry and very hot summer here like most of the east coast and it was one of the few maples I have that showed no signs of stress or scorch.

Fireglow as goes down to z5 so winter ok too.