Acer Palmatum 'Shigitatsu Sawa'

Aka Shigitatsu Sawa Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Shigitatsu Sawa’ is a refined Japanese maple prized for its delicate variegation and elegant texture. Spring foliage emerges pale green to yellow-green, heavily veined with dark green, creating a lace-like, almost marbled appearance that gives the cultivar a light, airy quality.

Through summer, the foliage remains soft green with contrasting darker veins, holding its subtle pattern best in partial shade. In fall, ‘Shigitatsu Sawa’ turns clear golden yellow, sometimes with soft orange highlights, providing a gentle but luminous autumn display. Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form and pronounced venation.

The habit is upright and rounded, forming a graceful small tree with balanced branching. This cultivar prefers partial shade, protection from strong afternoon sun, and well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 10–15 ft



Height: 12–18 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for subtle variegation



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Accent near patios or walkways



Light shade focal point



Contrast plant among darker-leaved shrubs or conifers

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

10-18'

Width

10-15'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Cornsilk, Green

Fall color

Red, Yellow

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No