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Foliage: Young leaves emerge a brilliant bright crimson-red in spring, creating a striking display. As summer progresses, the foliage softens to a greenish-red or pink-tinged green, before turning fiery shades of scarlet and crimson again in autumn. The leaves are typical of Japanese maples five-lobed, sharply pointed and delicate in texture.
Habit: Forms a small, upright, rounded shrub or tree, typically growing to about 23 metres high with a similar spread over many years. It has a gently layered, graceful shape.
Bark: Smooth grey branches offer subtle winter structure once the leaves fall.
Because of its spectacular spring colour, Deshojo is highly prized for planting near paths, patios or entrances where its early display can be fully appreciated.
Prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
Will tolerate some morning sun, which helps intensify its red spring leaves, but too much hot afternoon sun can cause leaf scorch.
Always site in a sheltered position, away from strong or drying winds.
Important to protect from cold winds which can damage the fine leaf margins and cause browning.
Likes soil to be consistently moist but well-drained.
Water deeply in dry periods, particularly when young or in containers.
Mulch each spring to help conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soil.
Avoid heavy clay or very alkaline ground. If necessary, plant in raised beds or containers using ericaceous compost mixed with grit for drainage.
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or an acer-specific feed.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which promote soft growth more susceptible to wind or frost.
Requires little pruning.
Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while dormant.
Avoid hard cutting back which spoils its natural layered shape.
Generally very healthy and pest-free.
May occasionally attract aphids on new growth.
Leaf scorch (browned edges or tips) usually results from drought, strong winds or intense sun, not disease.
Well-suited to large pots, making it a good choice for terraces or courtyards.
Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure excellent drainage, and raise pots on feet.
Water regularly and protect roots in severe winters by wrapping the container or moving it to a sheltered spot.
