Oshio-Beni Japanese Maple

Oshio-Beni Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Oshio-Beni')

Oshio-Beni Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Oshio-Beni') is a vigorous, upright cultivar cherished for its brilliant red-orange spring foliage and fiery fall display. The name �Oshio-Beni� roughly translates to �big tide of red,� a fitting description for the vibrant flush of color that marks this tree throughout the growing season. Its broad canopy and fast growth make it an ideal choice for adding height, color, and shade to garden spaces.

Distinctive Features

'Oshio-Beni' produces deeply divided, palmate leaves that emerge bright red to red-orange in early spring. As the season progresses, the foliage softens to a bronze-red or greenish tone in summer, before transitioning to vivid orange and crimson hues in fall. This cultivar forms a well-branched, upright tree reaching 15 to 18 feet tall and 12 to 15 feet wide at maturity, with a rounded crown and graceful presence in the landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best color achieved with morning sun and afternoon shade in warmer climates.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil with slightly acidic pH and good organic content.
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
• Humidity: Tolerant of average humidity; provide good air circulation to reduce fungal risks.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; reliable in a wide range of temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Vivid foliage and strong branching make it ideal as a visual centerpiece.
• Shade Tree: Offers light-filtering canopy coverage in lawns or garden beds.
• Japanese Gardens: Blends beautifully with rocks, water features, and ornamental grasses.
• Mixed Borders: Adds vertical contrast and seasonal color variation.
• Autumn Interest Gardens: Excellent for fall color impact alongside other deciduous trees.

Low Maintenance Care

'Oshio-Beni' is a relatively easy-care Japanese maple with strong growth and minimal pruning needs. It thrives when given adequate moisture and room to grow.

• Watering: Deep water weekly during dry periods; more frequent watering in heat or containers.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and leaf coloration.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common pests and diseases; watch for aphids or scale if stressed.
• Winter Care: Cold-hardy; mulch around base to protect roots and retain soil moisture.

Why Choose Oshio-Beni Japanese Maple?

'Oshio-Beni' offers vivid spring and fall color, a graceful shape, and fast growth, making it one of the most rewarding upright red maples for home landscapes.

• Brilliant Seasonal Color: Eye-catching reds, oranges, and scarlets from spring to fall.
• Strong Growth Habit: Upright, spreading canopy fills space quickly and elegantly.
• Versatile Placement: Works well in gardens, borders, and as a specimen tree.
• Low Maintenance: Requires only basic care once established.
• Cold Hardy: Performs reliably across a broad range of climates.

With its vibrant foliage and elegant form, Oshio-Beni Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Oshio-Beni') makes a bold and reliable addition to any ornamental landscape.