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How to Grow Inaba Shidare

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Inaba Shidare

Acer palmatum 'Inaba Shidare'

tree

Inaba Shidare is a dwarf Japanese maple cultivar known for its deeply dissected, finely textured foliage that displays vibrant crimson-red color throughout the growing season. This cascading weeping form creates an elegant, fountain-like silhouette and typically grows 6-8 feet tall. The foliage turns brilliant scarlet in autumn before dropping for winter dormancy.

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Example Inaba Shidare timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Inaba Shidare

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Inaba Shidare

    Late summer into fall

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Inaba Shidare dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Partial shade; 3-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Afternoon shade is beneficial, especially in zones 7-8 to prevent leaf scorch.
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water deeply during dry periods, especially in the first two years after planting. Mulch around the base to maintain soil moisture and cool root temperature.
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Spacing: 48 inches
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Days to maturity: N/A - ornamental tree with ongoing growth
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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as root ball; do not plant deeper

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil, slightly acidic
pH: 5.5-6.5
Amendments:
Peat moss Compost Perlite Bark mulch for moisture retention

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 5b-8a, with best performance in zones 6-7

5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

First year

Young transplant with small trunk (0.5-1 inch diameter) and initial branching structure

Water frequently to keep soil moist. Provide afternoon shade. Avoid fertilizing first year. Support with stake if needed in windy locations.

2

Juvenile Growth

Years 2-3

Trunk thickens, multiple branches develop, weeping form becomes apparent, foliage fills in

Continue consistent moisture. Minimal pruning—only remove dead or crossing branches. Light feeding with balanced fertilizer in spring.

3

Mature Vegetative

Years 4-10+

Full weeping form established, dense deeply-lobed crimson foliage throughout canopy, 6-8 feet tall

Maintain consistent watering. Prune only to maintain shape or remove dead wood. Apply organic mulch annually.

4

Seasonal Color

Ongoing seasonal cycle

Spring: bright crimson-red new growth; Summer: deep red foliage; Autumn: brilliant scarlet before leaf drop

Ensure adequate moisture during color change phases. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to maintain vibrant color.

5

Dormancy

Winter (3-4 months)

Bare branches display graceful weeping architecture; plant is completely deciduous

No watering needed during dormancy (winter). Can perform structural pruning in late winter if needed. Inspect for winter damage.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Japanese forest grass Hostas Ferns Hellebores Astilbes Coral bells Azaleas Understory shade plants

Avoid planting near:

Black walnut trees Shallow-rooted trees competing for moisture Windy, exposed sites

Common Pests

  • Hand-pick in early morning, use pheromone traps, or apply neem oil spray in severe infestations

  • Spray with strong water stream, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil

  • Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil or miticide if severe

  • Prune infested branches, apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season

Uses

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Specimen landscape plant

Ornamental

Inaba Shidare serves as an exceptional focal point in Japanese gardens, shade gardens, and mixed borders due to its weeping form and vibrant foliage. Its year-round visual interest makes it a premium ornamental choice. [source]

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Container gardening

Household

This cultivar performs well in large containers (20+ gallons), making it ideal for patios, decks, and small gardens where space is limited. Container planting allows easier control of soil pH and moisture. [source]

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Autumn foliage arrangements

Craft

The brilliant scarlet autumn leaves can be cut and used in floral arrangements, providing striking natural color and texture to fall displays. [source]

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Wildlife shelter

Wildlife

The dense, cascading foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for small birds and beneficial insects, while the tree's structure offers aesthetic and ecological value. [source]

Harvest Tips

N/A - ornamental tree grown for foliage and form, not for harvesting. Leaves naturally drop in autumn.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Inaba Shidare translates to 'Inaba Weeping' in Japanese, referencing both its dwarf origin (Inaba region) and its characteristic pendulous branching habit.
  • 🌱 Japanese maples have been cultivated and selectively bred for over 300 years, with more than 1,000 named cultivars developed, making Inaba Shidare part of an ancient horticultural tradition.
  • 🌱 Despite their delicate appearance, Japanese maples are quite hardy and can live 100+ years, with some specimens in Japan exceeding 300 years of age.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Annual Cultivar Mulch Partial Shade pH Transplant
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