Acer palmatum ‘Aka Shigitatsu Sawa’

Japanese Acer, Japanese Maple

(1 customer review)

From: £76.95

Acer palmatum ‘Aka Shigitatsu Sawa’ is a bushy deciduous tree that reaches a height of approximately 4 metres. Its distinctive characteristics include deeply separated leaves with seven lobes, measuring 4-6cm in length and 6-9cm in width. The leaves taper to a sharp point and feature wavy margins.

When young, the leaves unfold in a crimson hue with dark veins, transitioning to a light yellow-green shade with overlays of pink and red. This unique colour combination persists through summer before transforming into a dark green shade, ultimately transitioning to vibrant red in autumn.

In the spring, inconspicuous red-purple flowers may emerge, followed by winged red fruits.

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Origin: Japan, Korea, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia
Genus: Acer
Species / Cultivar: palmatum 'Aka Shigitatsu Sawa'
Common Name: Japanese Acer, Japanese Maple
Synonym: Acer palmatum 'Samurai', Acer palmatum 'Beni-shigitatsu-sawa'

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.

Acer palmatum 'Aka Shigitatsu Sawa'
Soil: Moist but Well Drained
Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.
Growth Rate: Slow
This plant is particularly slow to grow, even during growing season.
Water Requirement: High
Likely to require supplementary watering in warmer months, even once established.
Maintenance: A little
Easy to look after but may occasionally require some attention in order to thrive.
Situation: Part Shade to Full Shade
Can enjoy several hours of direct sunlight, but also happy in full shade.
Eventual Height: 2.5-4m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 2.5-4m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Deciduous
Sheds all its foliage annually, so for a period of the year it will be without foliage.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Caring for Acer palmatum ”Aka Shigitatsu Sawa” is relatively simple. Plant it in a location with partial shade, providing protection from intense afternoon sun. Ensure the soil is well-draining and consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Regular watering is essential, but avoid waterlogged conditions.

Prune sparingly to maintain its natural form and remove any dead or crossing branches. ”Aka Shigitatsu Sawa” is generally pest-resistant, but keeping an eye out for aphids and other common pests is recommended. With proper care and attention, this unique Japanese maple cultivar will thrive, showcasing its exquisite lace-like foliage and adding a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape.

 

Expert Tip

Acers hate drying out at the roots, so mulch heavily with bark chippings to conserve soil moisture.

1 customer review for Acer palmatum ‘Aka Shigitatsu Sawa’

Stunning quality tree,beautiful colours.Great size and very healthy.Delivered in great condition and well packaged.Really pleased.

philip wilkinson (verified owner)