Trees · Maples
Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira'
Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira'
In USDA zones 7b–8a around Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' is a tree used in Triangle yards when mature size, sun, and drainage fit the bed. Piedmont clay rewards a wide planting hole, a slightly high crown, and steady first-season water. Fall planting is the usual window here; water through the first summer no matter the calendar.
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Key facts for the Triangle
- Botanical name
- Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira'
- Common name
- Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira'
- Plant type
- Trees
- Group
- Maples
- Hardiness here
- USDA 7b–8a (Raleigh–Durham Triangle)
- Light
- Part sun / part shade
- Water
- Deep, consistent water while establishing
- Soil
- Well-drained
- Leaf habit
- See overview
- Best planting window
- Fall (October–November) in the Piedmont; spring after frost as backup
Overview
Acer palmatum, commonly known as Japanese maple, palmate maple, or smooth Japanese maple, is a species of woody plant native to Korea, Japan, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia. Many different cultivars of this maple have been selected and they are grown worldwide for their large variety of attractive forms, leaf shapes, and spectacular colors.
At a glance
Sun
Water & soil
Foliage & season
Common questions
Is Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' a good plant for Raleigh and the Triangle?
Yes—when the site matches its light and drainage needs. Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' is used in Raleigh, Durham, and Cary landscapes in USDA zones 7b–8a. Confirm mature width, overhead wires, and how wet the Piedmont clay stays after storms before you plant.
When should I plant Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' in North Carolina?
Fall (October–November) is the safest window for Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' in the Piedmont: soil is still warm, air is cooler, and roots can grow before summer. Spring after the last frost works if you can water deeply through the first hot season.
Will Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' grow in Piedmont clay?
It can, with careful planting: wide hole, crown slightly above grade, and no water sitting on the root flare. Heavy, poorly drained clay is the usual failure mode—not summer heat alone.
Does Japanese Maple 'Shishigashira' prefer sun or shade?
Part sun or part shade is the usual fit. Morning sun with afternoon protection is often ideal in hot Piedmont summers.
Reference context includes Wikipedia (“Acer palmatum”), licensed under CC BY-SA. Reference image source: Acer palmatum.
