Acer palmatum ‘Shishigashira’
Japanese Acer, Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum ‘Shishigashira,’ also known as Lion’s Head Maple, is a captivating Japanese maple cultivar with unique and intriguing features. Its dense clusters of crinkled, deeply lobed leaves resemble a lion’s mane, adding a touch of visual interest to any landscape. With shades of green in spring and summer, ‘Shishigashira’ transforms into a breathtaking display of fiery orange and crimson hues in autumn.
This slow-growing deciduous tree reaches a height of about 1.8 to 3 metres, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or container planting. ‘Shishigashira’ thrives in partial shade and well-draining soil, making it a stunning focal point in any Japanese-style garden or landscape.
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Plant Biography
The background of Acer palmatum hybrids can be traced back to Japan, where the parent species, Acer palmatum, is native. Over centuries, Japanese gardeners and horticulturists selectively bred and cultivated various varieties of Acer palmatum to enhance specific traits, such as leaf shapes, colours, and growth habits. These efforts resulted in a rich diversity of Acer palmatum cultivars, celebrated for their exquisite and ornamental features. In the 19th and 20th centuries, these hybrids found their way to Europe and North America, captivating gardeners worldwide. Today, Acer palmatum hybrids continue to be cherished and extensively cultivated, gracing landscapes and gardens with their mesmerising foliage and adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to outdoor spaces.
Care & Size Guidance
Acer palmatum ‘Shishigashira’ requires minimal care to thrive. Plant it in a location with partial shade, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage. Ensure the soil is well-draining and consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune sparingly to maintain its natural shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Protect it from strong winds, which can damage its crinkled leaves.
‘Shishigashira’ is one of the smaller-growing cultivars of Japanese Acer, taking approximately 20 years to reach a maximum of 3 metres in height, making it perfect for large containers.
With its relatively low maintenance needs, ‘Shishigashira’ rewards gardeners with its mesmerising foliage and elegant form, making it a prized addition to any landscape.
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