Weeping Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Shidare'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
120 inches
Width
120 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Acer palmatum 'Shidare', commonly known as the 'Shidare' Japanese Maple, is prized for its stunning, weeping form and deeply lobed, red to purple foliage. Notable for its cascading branches that create a beautiful weeping effect, making it a distinctive choice for ornamental landscape designs.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with dappled sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth.
- Prepare well-draining acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter.
- Tuck young seedlings gently into the soil, ensuring roots are spread out.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the first year.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches.
Pro Tip
Use acid-loving fertilizer in early spring to promote vibrant leaf color and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune lightly to shape and remove deadwood
- Apply acid-loving fertilizer in spring
- Protect from strong winds and late frosts
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize with alkaline or high-nitrogen fertilizers
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late summer
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soils
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Weeping Japanese Maple questions
What zones can Weeping Japanese Maple grow in?
Weeping Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Weeping Japanese Maple deer resistant?
Yes — Weeping Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Weeping Japanese Maple bloom?
Weeping Japanese Maple typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Weeping Japanese Maple need full sun?
Weeping Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Acer to compare
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Acer palmatum 'Orangeola'
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Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen'
Coral Bark Maple
Acer palmatum 'Sango-Kaku'
Final Fire Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Final Fire'
Esk Sunset Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Esk Sunset'
Keep exploring
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Grow Weeping Japanese Maple with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
