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 compact, slow growing selection valued for finely divided, narrow lobed leaves that emerge fresh green in spring, stay cool green through summer, and turn warm gold to orange and red in fall; its dense, rounded to slightly mounded form provides refined texture for patios, entries, and small gardens.

Distinctive Features

Slender, slightly crimped lobes give a delicate, feathery look without full laceleaf weeping; short internodes build a tidy canopy that shows color and structure up close.

Growing Conditions

Plant in evenly moist, well drained soil with morning sun and afternoon protection in hotter regions to preserve leaf edges and maximize fall color.

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; avoid harsh afternoon sun in warm climates.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist during active growth and heat.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 4 to 6 ft tall and 5 to 7 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

Its compact footprint and intricate foliage make placement simple in high visibility, small scale settings.

• Focal Point: Finely cut green foliage and warm fall tones draw attention.
• Container Feature: Excellent performance in large pots on patios and entries.
• Entry Accent: Dense, polished habit frames paths and foundations.
• Rock Garden: Scales well among stones and low conifers.
• Mixed Border: Provides fine texture contrast with broad leaved shrubs.

Low Maintenance Care

Minimal pruning and steady moisture keep the canopy full and foliage clean.

• Watering: Deeply water weekly during dry periods to maintain even moisture.
• Pruning: Light thinning in late winter to refine layers; avoid heavy summer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer over roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind shelter and avoid waterlogged soils to prevent leaf edge burn.

Why Choose Washi-no-o Japanese Maple?

Choose this cultivar for delicate texture, compact size, and a reliable color shift that fits modern and traditional designs.

• Refined Texture: Narrow, crimped lobes read elegant at close range.
• Compact Habit: Ideal for small gardens, courtyards, and containers.
• Seasonal Color: Fresh spring greens followed by a warm fall finale.
• Design Versatility: Blends with conifers, grasses, and flowering perennials.
• Straightforward Care: Low pruning needs and predictable performance.

Place where morning light can illuminate the fine leaf detail and highlight the plant's layered form.