Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’ Standards, commonly known as the Japanese Weeping Maple, is an elegant and highly ornamental tree prized for its finely dissected, deeply lobed foliage and graceful cascading form. Grafted onto a standard, it creates a striking umbrella-shaped canopy that provides beautiful structure and colour in the landscape year-round. This variety is particularly valued for its rich crimson to deep burgundy leaves that hold their colour well through the summer before turning brilliant scarlet in autumn.

Flowers:
Tiny, inconspicuous reddish-purple flowers appear in spring and are followed by small winged samaras (seed pods). While not showy, the flowers add subtle seasonal interest.

Foliage:
The delicate, lace-like leaves are deeply cut and display an intense burgundy-purple hue in spring and summer, deepening to rich tones in cooler weather. Autumn brings a spectacular display of vibrant crimson-red before the tree becomes dormant in winter.

Fruit:
Small, winged samaras appear in late summer and may persist into early autumn. These are ornamental and add to the tree’s natural charm.

Form and Size:
A deciduous small tree with a pendulous, weeping habit when grafted as a standard. Typically grows to around 2–3 metres high (depending on graft height) and 2–3 metres wide, forming a rounded, cascading dome shape.

Growing Conditions:
Prefers a position in full sun to part shade, protected from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds. Thrives in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils enriched with organic matter. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and protect roots. It benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially in hot climates.

Uses:
A stunning feature tree ideal for Japanese gardens, courtyards, and decorative containers. Perfect for framing entrances, water features, or as a statement tree in small landscapes. Its weeping form and vivid foliage make it an exceptional choice for year-round visual appeal.

Maintenance:
Low maintenance once established. Prune lightly after leaf fall to shape or remove any dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can spoil the tree’s natural form. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage colour.

Notes:
‘Inaba Shidare’ is one of the best red weeping maples for retaining deep foliage colour through warm months. It performs best in cooler areas of Australia or shaded microclimates in warmer regions such as the Sunshine Coast. Protect young trees from hot winds and late frosts.

Companion Plants:
Pair with contrasting textures and colours such as Liriope ‘Emerald Cascade’, Azalea, Japanese Iris, or ornamental grasses. Works beautifully alongside stones, ponds, and shaded understory plantings.

Common Name: Japanese Weeping Maple ‘Inaba Shidare’
Botanical Name: Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Inaba Shidare’
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Japan