Sensu

Character & interest

‘Sensu’ stands out first and foremost for its leaf shape: more finely cut and “fan-like” than many full moon maples, with a very graphic texture. It’s an interesting variety if you’re looking for a different shirasawanum, with a real spring show and a very warm autumn finale.

Colours

• Spring : orange to bronze on young leaves (intensity varies with exposure and temperatures).

• Summer : green to mid-green.

• Autumn : orange then red (sometimes crimson).

Habit & vigour

Upright at first, then more open with age, generally compact for the category. Moderate to good vigor (steady growth if the soil stays cool and moist in summer). It is often presented as a hybrid (shirasawanum × palmatum), which may explain some intermediate traits.

Indicative size

Typical ranges observed depending on descriptions and growing conditions:

• around 2 to 2.5 m tall at about 10 years,

• about 1.5 to 2.5 m wide (depending on branching),

• in the long term, it can become a broader small tree in the ground (variable with conditions).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. Protection from harsh afternoon sun is recommended, especially in containers, to preserve foliage quality.

Origin & history

‘Sensu’ was found as a chance seedling from Acer shirasawanum ‘Palmatifolium’ by breeder Jim Baggett (Oregon State University). The plant then circulated under the code ‘JB-50’ before being named ‘Sensu’ and introduced to the market, with the name given by Talon Buchholz. ‘Sensu’ is commonly translated as “moving fan” (or “folding/moving fan”), directly referencing the leaf shape.