Contents
Description
The Acer Palmatum Shaina is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It originates from Japan and is a popular choice among gardeners due to its stunning red foliage, which makes it an excellent ornamental plant. The tree has a slow growth rate and can grow up to 10 feet in height and 6 feet in width. It is a compact and dense shrub that has a rounded shape and is perfect for small gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Palmatum Shaina has beautiful, deep red foliage that turns burgundy in the fall. The leaves are small, with a palmate shape and five to seven lobes. The shrub produces small, red flowers in the spring, which give way to samaras in the summer. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, with a few white speckles. The tree has a dense, compact habit and is perfect for small gardens or as a container plant.
Care Guide
The Acer Palmatum Shaina is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-draining and doesn’t get too waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall.
- Soil: The Acer Palmatum Shaina prefers moist, well-draining soil. Use a high-quality potting mix if planting in a container.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The Acer Palmatum Shaina is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Palmatum Shaina is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and die. Use an insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control the infestation.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control the infestation.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. There is no cure, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
The Acer Palmatum Shaina is native to Japan and is commonly found in the wild in mountainous areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. The shrub is often planted in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant due to its stunning red foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Acer Palmatum Shaina be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is watered regularly.
Q: Does the Acer Palmatum Shaina require pruning?
A: The shrub doesn’t require pruning but can be pruned in the late winter or early spring to shape it or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Acer Palmatum Shaina?
A: Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall.
Q: Is the Acer Palmatum Shaina deer resistant?
A: No, the plant is not deer resistant and may need to be protected from deer if they are present in the area.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum Bloodgood
- Acer Palmatum Sango Kaku
- Acer Palmatum Atropurpureum
- Acer Palmatum Emperor 1
- Acer Palmatum Osakazuki
References
- “Acer palmatum ‘Shaina’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j900
- “Acer Palmatum Shaina.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-shaina-info.htm
- “Acer Palmatum Shaina.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/japanese-maple-shaina-profile-3269412
