Acer palmatum dissectum 'Inaba Shidare'Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple Tree

The Acer palmatum dissectum 'Inaba Shidare', commonly known as the Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple, is a graceful, deciduous tree admired for its cascading habit and deeply lobed, lace-like leaves. Emerging as deep purple-red in spring, the foliage retains its rich colour through summer before turning brilliant shades of crimson and scarlet in autumn. This slow-growing maple reaches 2 to 3 metres tall and wide, making it ideal as a feature plant, in containers, or as part of a Japanese-style garden.

Elegant and low-maintenance, the Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple adds year-round beauty to gardens with its stunning foliage and weeping form.

Specifications

• Height2 to 3 metres
• Width2 to 3 metres
• Native toJapan (species origin)
• FoliageDeeply lobed, lace-like leaves in purple-red, turning crimson in autumn; deciduous
• Growth rateSlow to moderate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils enriched with organic matter
• LightPartial shade to filtered sunlight; tolerates full sun in cooler climates
• WaterModerate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• ClimateThrives in temperate regions; prefers protection from strong winds

Additional Features

• FormCascading, weeping growth habit with dense foliage
• UsesIdeal as a feature plant, in Japanese gardens, rockeries, or large containers
• SpacingPlant 2 to 3 metres apart for individual displays
• Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning required; shape lightly in winter if needed
• Pest ResistanceHardy and generally pest-free; monitor for aphids or scale insects
• Seasonal AppealFoliage offers stunning seasonal colour changes
• Shade TolerancePerforms well under dappled light, enhancing shaded garden areas
• VersatilityComplements Japanese, cottage, and contemporary garden styles

The Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple is a timeless and captivating tree, perfect for adding structure, texture, and vibrant seasonal colour to gardens and landscapes.