Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'

Acer palmatum 'Seiryu', also known as the "Japanese maple Seiryu," is a unique cultivar of the Acer palmatum species from the Sapindaceae family. This deciduous shrub is the only dissected Japanese maple with an upright habit, valued for its finely cut, lace-like foliage and spectacular seasonal colors. It is ideal for ornamental gardens, Japanese-style landscapes, and bonsai, thanks to its delicate texture and elegant shape.

Appearance of leaves, flowers, and fruits

• Leaves: The leaves are deeply dissected, with 7-9 thin, lace-like lobes, a bright light green in spring and summer. In autumn, the leaves turn vibrant shades of golden yellow, orange, and bright red, creating a dramatic visual effect. The leaves are small, 4-6 cm, with finely serrated edges, giving an airy and textured look.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, purple, grouped in discreet clusters, appearing in April-May. They are not ornamental but attract pollinators such as bees.
• Fruits: The fruits are double samaras, initially reddish, turning brown at maturity, 1-2 cm long. They appear in summer but do not significantly contribute to the plant’s appearance.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: It grows as an upright shrub, reaching 3-5 meters in height and 2-3 meters in width, with a rounded, open crown. Its moderate growth makes it suitable for medium-sized gardens.
• Vigor: It has slow to moderate growth, with fine but sturdy branches and a distinct upright habit.
• Type: It is a deciduous shrub with fine branching that highlights the dissected foliage.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, ideally under trees with sparse crowns or near an east-facing wall. Full sun can scorch the delicate leaves, and dense shade reduces the intensity of autumn colors.
• Soil: Requires fertile, well-drained soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7). A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat is ideal. It does not tolerate waterlogged or chalky soils.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not flooded. A layer of organic mulch (e.g., bark) helps retain moisture.
• Pollination: The flowers attract pollinators, but the fruits are not important for ornamental value.

Care and hardiness

• Hardiness: It is hardy to temperatures down to -20°C (zones 5-8), making it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Young leaves can be damaged by late frosts, and branches need protection in harsh winters.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to stimulate growth. Avoid excess nitrogen, which can affect seasonal colors.
• Pruning: Prune minimally in January-February to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain shape. Heavy pruning can disrupt the upright habit.
• Pests and diseases: May be affected by mites, aphids, or verticillium wilt. The fine leaves are sensitive to sunburn or strong winds. Good ventilation and drainage prevent problems.
• Wildlife: Flowers attract bees, and the samaras may be eaten by small birds.

Uses

Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' is ideal for Japanese gardens, cottage-style landscapes, or as a solitary plant in medium-sized gardens. The dissected foliage pairs beautifully with plants like hosta, ferns, or azaleas, creating textured contrasts. It can be grown in containers on terraces but requires protection from wind and cold. It is perfect for adding height and dynamism to ornamental landscapes.

Origin

Acer palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in temperate forests. The 'Seiryu' cultivar was selected in Japan for its dissected foliage and unique upright habit, being one of the most distinctive Japanese maple varieties.

Possibility of turning Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' into bonsai

Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' is an excellent choice for bonsai due to its small, deeply dissected leaves, vibrant seasonal colors, and moderate growth, which facilitate shaping.

Height with pot included approx. 30 cm