Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple Tree

Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum dissectum 'Inaba Shidare') is a weeping lace leaf maple that builds a cascading mound about 2.5m tall and 3m wide, spreading wider than it grows tall. The finely cut foliage holds deep purple red through the growing season and turns brilliant crimson in autumn, and the layered, weeping branch structure is sculptural even in winter. For a sheltered courtyard or a generous pot, few plants offer this much presence in this little height.

Why you'll love it

• A weeping form with real character. The branches cascade into a layered dome that looks composed from every angle, leaves on or off.
• Lace leaf foliage in deep red. Finely dissected leaves carry rich purple red tones through spring and summer, stronger than most weeping maples.
• Crimson autumn colour. The season ends in a vivid display before the leaves drop.
• Sized for small spaces. At 2.5m by 3m with non invasive roots, it fits courtyards, entries and raised beds without ever threatening structures.
• Safe around pets. It is considered non toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Feature planting. Set it where the weeping outline reads clearly: beside steps, over a low wall, at the corner of a deck or reflected in water. Give the 3m spread room to arch.

Pots and containers. It thrives long term in a wide container, which also lets balcony and courtyard gardeners move it out of harsh exposure.

Small gardens. As the single tree in a compact garden it provides canopy, seasonal change and winter structure at a domestic scale.

Growing Inaba Shidare in Australia

Position and climate. Morning sun or bright dappled light, with shelter from hot afternoon sun and drying wind, which scorch the fine foliage. It is frost hardy and best in cool temperate and warm temperate climates. In the humid subtropics and tropics it struggles, and we do not recommend it there.

Soil. Moist, well drained and rich in organic matter. Mulch 50mm to 75mm deep to keep the shallow roots cool, clear of the trunk.

Water and feed. Consistent moisture matters more than volume: water deeply once or twice a week in warm weather, more often in pots. Feed lightly in early spring with a slow release fertiliser.

Pruning. Very little. Remove dead twigs in winter and any crossing branches, then let the natural weeping architecture develop. Never shear it.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Inaba Shidare in 300mm, 400mm and 500mm pots and as advanced 45L plants, each already showing its weeping habit. It is deciduous, so winter deliveries arrive bare branched, which suits planting: the tree wakes in its new home. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95 and a minimum order of $300 before delivery. Advanced and large stock is freighted at cost. Expect measured growth, a maple like this builds slowly and is worth the wait. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Read the essential Japanese maple care guide for Australian gardens.
• See more plants with autumn colour.
• Browse trees and companions in plants for pots.
• Explore other plants for small gardens.

Common questions

Can it take full sun?

In cool temperate gardens, usually yes with reliable moisture. Everywhere else give it morning sun and afternoon shade, because hot westerly sun and dry wind crisp the fine leaves by mid summer.

Does it grow well in a pot?

Exceptionally well. Choose a wide pot at least 500mm across, use premium mix, and never let it dry out in summer. Container plants stay a little smaller than the 2.5m by 3m in ground size.

Will it grow in Brisbane or further north?

The humid subtropics and tropics are outside its comfortable range; summer humidity and heat scorch the foliage. From the warm temperate zone south it is reliable and long lived.

How do I keep its shape?

Mostly by leaving it alone. The weeping habit forms naturally; just remove dead wood in winter. If a branch reaches somewhere unwanted, cut it back to a side branch rather than shearing the outline.