This Japanese maple is quite unique in that it is stiffly upright and the leaves are heavily curved and crinkled. New growth is a vibrant green and the buds are bright red making a dramatic early season display. Leaves mature to a darker green. It does not develop as dense a leaf cover compared to many Japanese maples. Fall color is yellow. Can grow 12-15′ tall and 8-10′ wide. ‘Shishigashira’ means lion’s head, and this cultivar is sometimes commonly called lion’s head maple.

Pronunciation: AY-ser pahl-MAY-tum

Species Meaning: Shaped like the palm of the hand

Cultivation Notes

Best grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. New foliage may scorch in full sun locations in hot summers areas, particularly if soils are not kept consistently moist. Ours is grown where it will get quite a lot of shade in winter and spring, but more in summer.

In Our Garden

Plant ID: P18103

Found in Upper Woodland,

This is the focal point of the upper woodland area.

We acquired this plant from Farmington Gardens.