Weeping Japanese Maple Inaba Shidare

One of the fastest growing Weeping Japanese Maple Trees, with deep purple foliage in spring and summer turning crimson/orange in autumn. 1-2M tall, grafted, makes for a stunning feature in the garden.

Acer palmatum ‘Dissectum Inaba Shidare’, commonly known as Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple, is a stunning cultivar of the Japanese Laceleaf Maple. It is beloved for its deeply lobed, finely textured foliage and bold red-purple color that lasts throughout the growing season. This tree is often used as a showpiece in gardens and landscapes due to its graceful, cascading form.

Key Features:

Appearance:

• Form: This small, deciduous tree has a cascading, weeping habit with branches that create an elegant, umbrella-like shape.
• Height and Spread: Grows to about 1.5–2.5 meters (5–8 feet) tall and wide, though its size can vary with pruning and age.
• Foliage: The leaves are deeply dissected and have a lacy appearance. They emerge a rich purple-red in spring, darken in summer, and transition to fiery shades of crimson or scarlet in the Autumn.
• Bark: Smooth bark enhances winter interest, especially in mature specimens.

Growing Conditions:

Light Requirements:

• Prefers partial shade, particularly in warmer climates, to protect the delicate foliage from leaf scorch. In cooler climates, it can tolerate full sun, but afternoon shade is recommended.

Soil:

• Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic, and fertile soils. Avoid compacted or poorly drained soils, which can lead to root issues.

Watering:

• Requires consistent watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool.

Hardiness:

• Suitable to a range of climates.

Advantages:

1. Year-Round Beauty: Its stunning foliage color and graceful structure provide interest in all seasons.
2. Compact Size: Perfect for smaller gardens, containers, or as a standout feature in landscaping.
3. Seasonal Color: Maintains vibrant red-purple foliage throughout spring and summer, with a spectacular crimson fall display.
4. Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established.

Care Tips:

• Location: Choose a sheltered location to protect the delicate foliage from strong winds.
• Mulching: Add a 5–7 cm (2–3 inch) layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches while maintaining its natural, weeping form.
• Fertilizer: Feed with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.

Uses in Landscaping:

• Specimen Tree: Perfect as a focal point in gardens or near patios, walkways, or water features.
• Japanese-Style Gardens: Complements Zen or Asian-inspired garden designs beautifully.
• Containers: Its compact size and graceful form make it an excellent choice for large pots or planters.
• Mixed Plantings: Pairs well with contrasting textures like evergreen shrubs, ferns, or ornamental grasses.

Companion Plants:

• Evergreens: Boxwoods (Buxus), dwarf conifers, or azaleas.
• Ground Covers: Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum), mosses, or heucheras (coral bells).
• Perennials: Hostas, ferns, or Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra).