ACER PALM. SHIRAZZ

Acer palmatum 'Shirazz' is a variegated Japanese maple prized for its striking foliage: fresh spring leaves open with vivid pink tones and cream variegation, mature through summer to green with pink-edged variegation, then take on rich red autumn colour. A slow-growing, deciduous small tree with gracefully layered branching, it performs best in light shade and a sheltered position. Plant in moisture-retentive but well-drained, humus-rich soil that is preferably slightly acidic. In Irish gardens, provide dappled light and protection from cold, drying winds to help prevent leaf scorch and to safeguard tender young foliage from late frosts.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Partial shade (dappled light); sheltered from cold winds

Rate of Growth: Slow

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich; preferably slightly acidic

Hardiness: Hardy; protect young foliage from late frosts

Plant at a Glance