Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Seiryu’ – Laceleaf Japanese Maple

Botanical Name: Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Seiryu’

Alternate Name: Seiryu Maple

The Laceleaf Japanese Maple or Seiryu Japanese Maple grows in an upright growth habit, whereas other Japanese Maple cultivars with dissected leaves develop a weeping habit. ‘Dissectum’ refers to the deeply divided, palmate ornamental leaves 2 inches long that are reminiscent of fern leaves in their intricacy. The leaves on this cultivar are smaller than those of other dissected leaf maples.

The leaves of the Laceleaf Japanese Maple unfurl an attractive chartreuse color with red tips in the spring. The flowers of deep red/purple then emerge above the foliage in mid-spring and are pretty but not showy. The leaves later mature to a light green with a red tinge. In autumn, they turn an assortment of eye-catching colors of red, orange, and yellow.

Acer ‘Seiryu’ develops red samaras in the early to mid fall. The bark is an attractive gray color, and the tree silhouette provides structural interest through the winter. The cultivar name ‘Seiryu’ means blue-green dragon. Under optimal conditions it can live for up to 80 years.

Plant the Laceleaf Japanese Maple in full sun to part shade, but the foliage color is best with partial shade. This maple cultivar appreciates some shelter from the elements, as the leaves can suffer from wind and sun burn. The soil should be kept moist and compost should be added on a yearly basis. It’s important to mulch around the base of this tree to keep the roots moist and cool.