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Maple
Shishigashira
Acer palmatum
A classic, long-cultivated Japanese maple selection known for its dense, tightly congested growth habit and small, heavily crinkled or ruffled leaves that give the tree a distinctive textured, mounding form — the name translates to "lion's head," referencing its dense, mane-like canopy. Growth is slow and compact, making it a long-favored choice for smaller garden spaces and container culture.
Growing Specifications
- Height
- Variable with age; naturally slow and compact
- Spread
- Variable with age; naturally slow and compact
- Watering
- Moderate; consistent moisture during establishment
- Light
- Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Heat Tolerance
- Good; a tough, long-established cultivar that handles a range of conditions
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Soil Requirement
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil preferred but adaptable
North Texas Micro-climate Notes
As a tough, well-established cultivar, this specimen is generally more forgiving of North Texas heat and sun exposure than more delicate lace-leaf types, though a consistent mulch layer still benefits it through the hottest summer stretches.
Care Instructions
Plant in well-amended soil with good drainage. Water deeply and consistently during establishment. Minimal pruning needed given its naturally dense, compact habit.
Landscape Usage
Well suited to container culture, bonsai training, or as a compact structural accent in smaller garden beds where its dense, textured form can be appreciated up close.
Fun Fact
Shishigashira's dense, congested growth habit and slow rate make it one of the most popular Japanese maple cultivars for bonsai and container culture, alongside its use as a compact garden specimen.
