Acer palmatum ‘Deshojo’ (Japanese Maple)

Quite desirable, Acer palmatum ‘Deshojo’ is a deciduous shrub or small tree primarily grown for its striking spring foliage color. Emerging bright carmine-red in spring, the small, slender-pointed, lobed leaves gradually fade to green, often with reddish bronze edges, in summer. The delicate foliage turns brilliant scarlet in the fall before shedding to the ground. Small, pretty, reddish flowers appear in spring but are not showy. They may give way to samaras that ripen in late summer to fall. ‘Deshojo’ features an upright, rounded habit and is an outstanding ornamental Japanese maple for small gardens and bonsai.

• Grows up to 10 ft. tall and wide (300 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Best leaf color in partial shade, although full sun can be tolerated. A lack of soil moisture or excessive exposure can cause leaf scorch.
• Perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens and containers.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running. Fertilize in spring before the leaves emerge.
• It may be affected by horse chestnut scale, aphids, and verticillium wilt.
• Propagate by grafting or softwood cuttings.
• Acer palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia.