Sometimes called Lion's Head Maple or Mejishi, 'Shishigashira' is an unusual, bold addition to a garden indeed! Its deeply curled and crinkled bright green leaves are held in close-knit bunches, adding to the interesting architectural shape of its branches. Spring brings small reddish-purple flowers, but the densely packed tufts of foliage often conceals them from view. Quite different from most Japanese Maples, 'Shishigashira' develops its fall color much later in the season and is one of the last to flaunt its golden orange and burnished crimson tones. Its ornamental appeal continues into the winter months as its bark takes on a greenish yellow hue. If you're looking for a Japanese Maple with unusual four-season appeal, 'Shishigashira' is it!
Although the Lion's Head Maple prefers a sheltered location in dappled shade, it will develop its strongest autumn color in full sun and demonstrates a great resistance to leaf burn. Reaching just 7 feet in 10 years, its slow growth rate is desirable for training as bonsai or growing in patio containers and small garden spaces. Zones 6-9.
