Shishio Hime Japanese Maple

Shishio Hime Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Shishio hime')

Shishio Hime Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Shishio hime') is a very compact dwarf with tiny, closely spaced leaves that emerge orange to red, shift to green with bronze highlights in summer, and finish orange to red in fall; its dense, rounded habit provides intricate texture for containers, rock gardens, and small spaces.

Distinctive Features

Minute foliage and short internodes create a fine, highly detailed canopy; reliable color transitions on a slow growing, naturally tidy framework.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from hot afternoon sun to limit scorch.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment and in dry periods.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 2 to 4 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Miniature scale and spring color draw attention up close.
• Container Feature: Perfect for patios and courtyards.
• Rock Garden: Fine grained texture for troughs and edging.
• Bonsai Training: Tiny leaves and tight nodes suit shaping.
• Entry Accent: Adds color where height is limited.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly the first 1 to 2 years; increase during heat and drought.
• Pruning: Minimal; thin lightly in late winter to remove crowded twigs and maintain the mound.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer in early spring if growth is light; avoid heavy late feeding.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer over the root zone, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind protection and avoid waterlogged soils to keep foliage pristine.

Why Choose Shishio Hime Japanese Maple?

• True Dwarf Character: Fits the smallest gardens and containers.
• Refined Texture: Tiny leaves create a polished, intricate look.
• Seasonal Color: Warm spring and fall tones.
• Design Flexibility: Excellent for bonsai, rock gardens, and entry plantings.
• Low Upkeep: Slow growth and tidy habit need minimal pruning.