A dark leafed Japanese Maple
If you are looking for a Japanese Maple with very dark foliage, Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ is one of the best. With deep red to burgundy foliage and finely dissected leaves, it has a delicate, lacy appearance that makes it a standout feature in the garden.
Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ is a strong growing variety with larger foliage than many other dissected Japanese Maples. It holds its rich colour well through the growing season and into autumn when the leaves turn a brilliant crimson red.
The branch structure is generally stronger than many other cut leaf maples, with attractive red new growth and a naturally graceful habit. Although often described as a weeping Japanese Maple, it is better described as upright with a gently cascading form.
One of the outstanding features of this cultivar is its ability to cope with sun. While all Japanese Maples benefit from some protection from extreme heat, ‘Inaba Shidare’ tends to suffer less leaf scorch than many other red-leafed varieties.
Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ is a weeping Japanese Maple with deep burgundy foliage and an elegant cascading habit. Growing to around 2 metres tall and wide, it is highly valued as a specimen tree, performs well in containers and provides excellent colour from spring through to autumn.
Why Choose Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’
There are many Japanese Maple cultivars available, however ‘Inaba Shidare’ remains one of the most popular dark-leafed forms.
Its advantages include:
- Deep burgundy foliage that retains colour well through the season.
- Attractive finely dissected leaves with a soft, lacy texture.
- Stronger branching than many dissected varieties.
- Good tolerance to sun compared with other red Japanese Maples.
- Excellent performance as a specimen tree or container plant.
- Outstanding crimson autumn colour.
For gardeners looking for a dramatic focal point, few Japanese Maples provide the same combination of colour, form and reliability.
Landscaping Uses.
With its very dark foliage, Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ makes an excellent specimen tree in the garden.
Plant it as a feature tree where the graceful cascading habit can be appreciated, or combine it with other shade-loving plants such as Hydrangeas, Camellias and Rhododendrons. The dark foliage provides excellent contrast against green-leafed shrubs and perennials.
This is also an excellent choice for growing in containers where it can remain for many years before repotting becomes necessary.
For year-round interest, try underplanting with Liriope muscari ‘Emerald Cascade’, Hellebores, Hostas or Heucheras. These plants enjoy similar growing conditions and complement the finely textured foliage beautifully.
The name gives away its natural growth habit. The word ‘Shidare’ translates to cascading or weeping, which perfectly describes the elegant branching structure.
Growing Conditions
Like most Japanese Maples, Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ performs best in a cool, moist, humus-rich soil with good drainage.
Choose a position protected from hot drying winds and intense afternoon sun, particularly in warmer regions. Although more sun tolerant than many cultivars, some protection during periods of extreme heat is beneficial.
How to Plant
Dig the planting hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper than the container.
Improve the soil with compost and organic matter if required. Position the plant so the graft remains above soil level and backfill carefully.
Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch around the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk.
Mulching helps maintain a cool, moist root run and is particularly beneficial during the establishment period.
How to Grow
Provide regular moisture during the first few years after planting, especially through summer and during dry spring periods.
A deep watering when conditions are dry is preferable to frequent shallow watering.
Once established, the tree is reasonably hardy and low maintenance, requiring little attention apart from occasional watering and seasonal mulching.
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during the first two growing seasons while the root system establishes.
Established plants are moderately drought tolerant but perform best when the soil is kept evenly moist. Additional watering may be required during extended dry periods or extreme heat.
Container-grown specimens will require more frequent watering than plants growing in the ground.
Fertiliser
Apply a slow-release fertiliser suitable for ornamental trees in early spring.
Avoid heavy applications of high nitrogen fertilisers, which can encourage excessive soft growth.
An annual application of compost and mulch will often provide sufficient nutrition in good garden soils.
Pruning
Very little pruning is required.
Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches during winter while the tree is dormant. Allow the plant to maintain its natural cascading shape for the best ornamental effect.
Underplanting and Companion Plant Suggestions
Suitable companion plants include:
- Liriope muscari ‘Emerald Cascade’
- Hellebores
- Hostas
- Heucheras
- Camellias
- Hydrangeas
- Rhododendrons
These plants thrive in similar growing conditions and provide attractive contrast to the finely divided foliage.
Common Problems
Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ is generally trouble free when grown in suitable conditions.
Occasional issues may include:
- Leaf scorch during periods of extreme heat or drying winds.
- Browning leaf edges caused by drought stress.
- Poor growth in heavy or poorly drained soils.
- Premature leaf drop during prolonged dry weather.
Maintaining adequate soil moisture and applying mulch annually will help prevent most problems.
Summary (Quick Facts)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Acer palmatum Dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ |
| Common Name | Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple |
| Height | Around 2 metres (depending on grafting) |
| Spread | Around 2 metres |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Deep burgundy to almost black, turning crimson red in autumn |
| Soil | Humus rich, moist and well drained |
| Position | Protected from hot afternoon sun and drying winds |
| Water Requirements | Moderate |
| Container Growing | Excellent |
| Feature Use | Specimen tree, courtyard gardens, containers |
Where to Buy
Acer palmatum Dissectum Inaba Shidare is available for sale from the following participating suppliers
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
WINTER HILL TREE FARM Ph: 02 4878 9193 Fax: 02 4878 9109
NSW Southern Highlands
Retail & Wholesale. Advanced trees & hedging. Grown in pots for year-round planting. 45 litre - 1000 litre available. Great range. Great Quality. Delivery available.
www.winterhill.com.au
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au
Est. in 1994, we offer over 30 Varieties of quality 2nd year grafted Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) available for mail order.
www.maplesxmail.com.au