Acer Palmatum 'Shishio Improved'

Shishio Improved Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Shishio Improved’ is an enhanced selection of the Lion’s Head–type Japanese maples, valued for its dense, upright habit and thick, curled foliage with improved vigor and form. Leaves are tightly clustered along stiff branches, giving the tree a bold, architectural appearance year-round.

Spring foliage emerges bright green, maturing to deep, rich green through summer with good heat tolerance and resistance to scorch. In fall, ‘Shishio Improved’ develops vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, often with stronger and more consistent color than older forms. Leaves are small to medium-sized, heavily textured, and slightly cupped.

The growth habit is upright, compact, and columnar, with slow to moderate growth and excellent winter structure. It performs best in partial shade and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 6–8 ft



Height: 12–15 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for architectural form



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Small gardens and courtyards



Accent tree with strong winter interest



Collector or feature plant for texture

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-15'

Width

6-9'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Leaf color

Fern, Maroon

Fall color

Dark Red, Orange Red

Soil

Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Rounded

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No