Kurenai Jishi Japanese Maple

Kurenai Jishi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kurenai Jishi')

Kurenai Jishi Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kurenai Jishi') is a dwarf, lion head type selection prized for curled, crinkled leaves that emerge vivid red, age to deep green in summer, and finish orange to red in fall; its dense, upright, mounded habit adds sculptural presence to small gardens, paths, and container displays.

Distinctive Features

'Kurenai Jishi' means "Red Lion," referencing the bold spring color and compact lion head texture; tight internodes, thick leaf substance, and layered branching create a tidy silhouette that typically reaches 3 to 5 ft tall and 2 to 4 ft wide at maturity.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to part shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid drought and waterlogged conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 3 to 5 ft tall, 2 to 4 ft wide, slow growing.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Compact, sculptural specimen for entries and patios.
• Containers: Excellent in large pots where form can be appreciated up close.
• Rock Garden: Dense mound pairs well with stone and low perennials.
• Bonsai Training: Small leaves and short internodes suit styling.
• Front Border: Tight habit provides structure along paths and terraces.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to maintain steady moisture.
• Pruning: Minimal; light thinning in late winter to preserve the lion head form.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to moderate temperature and conserve moisture; keep off the trunk.
• Notes: Shelter from drying wind to prevent leaf scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in well drained soil.

Why Choose Kurenai Jishi Japanese Maple?

• Dwarf Sculpture: Naturally compact, architectural mound.
• Red Spring Flush: Vivid early color that shifts gracefully through seasons.
• Textural Interest: Crinkled foliage and tight internodes read richly up close.
• Space Efficient: Fits small gardens, courtyards, and containers.
• Easy Care: Low pruning needs and reliable performance when sited well.

Plant in morning sun with afternoon shade and maintain consistent moisture to showcase the richest color and tightest form.