Washi-No-O Japanese Maple

Washi-no-o Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Washi-no-o')

Washi-no-o Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Washi-no-o') is a linearilobum type with very narrow, threadlike green lobes that create a soft, feathery look in spring and summer before turning yellow, gold, and orange in fall; its compact, upright to mounded habit offers delicate motion and close up interest for borders, entries, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Washi-no-o' bears slender strap lobes on short internodes that build a dense, tidy canopy; the refined framework reads elegant in leaf and reveals a clean winter silhouette with reliable warm autumn color.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Maintain even moisture; avoid drought and waterlogged soil.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 6 to 10 ft tall, 4 to 8 ft wide, slow to moderate growth.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Filament fine foliage creates a distinctive, airy accent.
• Containers: Excellent in large, sheltered planters for close viewing.
• Entry Gardens: Adds refined texture along paths and patios.
• Mixed Borders: Softens bold leaf perennials and conifers.
• Rock Gardens: Feathery canopy contrasts with stone and gravel.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to keep soil consistently moist.
• Pruning: Minimal; light thinning in late winter to preserve the fine texture.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture and regulate temperature; keep mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide airflow and afternoon shade in hot sites to limit scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in well drained soil.

Why Choose Washi-no-o Japanese Maple?

• Uncommon Texture: Narrow strap lobes deliver a fine, feathery effect.
• Seasonal Color: Fresh greens shift to yellow, gold, and orange.
• Small Space Ready: Manageable size for patios and courtyards.
• Close Up Appeal: Dense, layered branching rewards near viewing.
• Design Versatility: Balances bold foliage and architectural elements.

For crisp leaves and vivid fall tones, pair morning sun with afternoon shade and maintain steady, well drained soil moisture.