Seiun kaku
‘Seiun kaku’ is a semi-dwarf Japanese maple with an upright habit, appreciated for its very distinctive foliage: the leaves overlap in small “tiers”, like roof tiles, creating a cloud-like effect at the tips of the shoots. In spring, the foliage is often chartreuse / acid green with red petioles, then it becomes green in summer. Autumn frequently finishes in an intense red. An original cultivar, perfect in a pot and for a small garden.
Character & interest
‘Seiun kaku’ is sought after for its texture: the stacked leaves create relief and a very structured look, while remaining more open and lighter than some very compact forms. It brings an elegant, “graphic” presence without taking up too much space.
Colours
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Spring : chartreuse / acid green, often with red petioles (and sometimes reddish stems on young shoots).
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Summer : deeper green.
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Autumn : deep red (often very decorative).
Habit & vigour
Upright habit, with a rather compact but airy silhouette. Moderate vigour, generally faster than ‘Mikawa yatsubusa’.
Indicative size
Order of magnitude: around 1.5 m at 10 years in several references. Ultimately, it is often given at about 2.5–3 m, sometimes up to 3 m × 3 m depending on conditions and training.
Exposure
Gentle sun / bright partial shade. Light showcases the spring foliage well and encourages the red autumn colour, but protection from scorching sun and dry wind improves foliage quality, especially in a container.
| Groupe MS | 11. Palmatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Érigé compact |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert chartreuse |
| Couleur Été | Vert profond |
| Couleur Automne | Orange / Rouge |
| Exposure | Soleil / Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
