Acer palmatum 'Shōjō-shidare' (D)
Japanese maple 'Shojo-shidare'
A low-growing spreading shrub, to around 2.5m height and width, with pendulous branches bearing deeply-cut leaves. The leaves emerge deep purple with dark green colouring down the centre of each lobe giving them a two-tone effect. In autumn, the foliage turns a brilliant scarlet-red. Red flowers borne in spring may be followed by winged fruits in autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Green Purple | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Purple | |||
| Autumn | Red | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Acer can be deciduous trees or large shrubs with paired, often palmately-lobed leaves and small flowers followed by characteristic winged fruits. Many have fine autumn colour, and some have ornamental stems
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil. Water in summer if necessary. Leaf colour is best in partial shade, although full sun can be tolerated. Leaf scorch can be caused by lack of soil moisture, drying winds or late spring frost. See Japanese maple cultivation
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Diseases
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus
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