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SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE

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SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE

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SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE

Acer palmatum 'Seiun Kaku'

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Root Pouch 5 gallon (SKU: 20526)
 0 - Available Now - Details   -   Grown in Root Pouch®.

List Price $195.00 Per Plant

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Hardiness Zone: 5-9   ·   Mature Height: 8-10 Feet   ·   Mature Spread: 8-10 Feet

Seiun Kaku Japanese Maple is a study in architectural plant structure, as its tightly layered branching creates a shingled effect, with leaves stacking over one another like tiles on a roof. From a short distance, the canopy appears cloud-like—compact, dimensional, and remarkably organized. In early spring, the foliage emerges a bright chartreuse-yellow that immediately commands attention. As the season progresses, the leaves deepen into a rich green, settling into a calm, refined summer presence.

Considered part of the broader 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' family of Japanese maples, 'Seiun Kaku' shares that signature tight internode spacing and layered, stacked foliage habit collectors admire. However, it tends to show slightly more vigor and upright strength than its predecessor giving it a bit more vertical energy while maintaining that distinctive clouded and shingled branching structure. The primary branches extend outward horizontally while smaller twigs rise vertically, creating a rhythmic architectural pattern. Over time, it is expected to reach approximately 8–10 feet in height and similar in spread, forming a dense, upright specimen. When autumn arrives, the entire canopy ignites in brilliant fiery red, delivering one of the boldest seasonal finales in this class of compact upright maples.

Botanically known as Acer palmatum 'Seiun kaku', this cultivar originated in Japan's Kansai district and was introduced in 1974 before becoming more widely available in the United States in the late 2000s. The name translates to "blue-green palace in the clouds," a poetic nod to its layered foliage architecture. Hardy in Zones 5–9, it performs best with partial shade in warmer climates to preserve its vibrant spring tones. For gardeners seeking a rare Japanese maple with strong structure, layered dimension, and exceptional fall color, Seiun Kaku Japanese Maple stands confidently within the Mikawa lineage.

SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE Plant Characteristics

Bark Color*
• Gray
Bark Type*
• Smooth
Cultural Information*
• Leaf Scorch - Low Resistance
• Leaf Spot - High Resistance
• Powdery Mildew - Moderate Resistance
• Root Rot - High Resistance
Fruit Type*
• Non-Edible Fruit
Growth Habit*
• Ornamental/Medium Growing
• Upright Growing
• Specimen
Growth Rate*
• Medium
Leaf Color Fall*
• Red/Brilliant Red
Leaf Color Spring*
• Green
• Light Green/Chartreuse
Leaf Color Summer*
• Green
Leaf Type*
• Deciduous/Herbaceous
Nature Assets*
• Attracts Birds
• Deer Resistant
Plant Type*
• Japanese Maple
Preferred Planting Season*
• Fall Planting
• Spring Planting
• Summer Planting
Preferred Soil Conditions*
• Adapts Well to Most Soil Types
• Average
• Moist
• Tolerates High pH (Alkaline Soils)
• Well-Drained
Propagation Methods*
• Budding
• Graft
Season of Interest*
• Fall
• Late Spring/Early Summer
• Late Summer/Early Autumn
• Spring
• Summer
Sun Exposure*
• Prefers Morning Sun Only in Northern States
• Prefers Morning Sun Only in Southern States
Uses*
• Accent Plant
• Landscape Specimen
• Near Water Gardens or Ponds
• Provides Shade
• Under Power Lines
• Understory Planting

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SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

  • Recommended Soil:
    • Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
    • Slightly acidic soil enhances foliage vibrancy.
    • Amend heavy clay to improve drainage.
    • Avoid consistently soggy planting sites.

  • Sun Exposure:
    • Best in partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
    • Tolerates slightly more sun in cooler regions.
    • Filtered light preserves spring chartreuse tones.
    • Afternoon protection reduces leaf scorch risk.

  • Irrigation Needs:
    • Maintain consistent moisture during establishment.
    • Water deeply during extended dry periods.
    • Allow soil to drain well between watering cycles.
    • Mulch to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.

  • Feeding & Nutrients:
    • Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed.
    • Top-dress annually with compost to support soil health.
    • Avoid heavy nitrogen applications.
    • Do not overfeed young trees.

  • Pruning & Maintenance:
    • Minimal pruning needed to maintain layered structure.
    • Remove crossing or damaged branches in late winter.
    • Avoid heavy shaping that disrupts natural form.
    • Protect from strong winter winds in exposed locations.

Family: Sapindaceae / Aceraceae · Common Name: Maple

FREE with every plant purchased:

  • The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
  • A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
  • Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
  • Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
  • Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

DIY Irrigation SuppliesWe use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

 

Growing and Maintenance Tips for Acer

Maple Trees are easy to grow, and adapt well to most conditions.

  • Plant large shade Maple Trees in full sun
  • Plant Japanese Maple trees in morning shade or sun and evening shade
  • Water daily until established, than as needed.
  • Prefers moist, well draining soil.
  • Feed once a year with a slow release fertilizer. To give your plant the best start possible, we include a free fertilizer packet.

Acer Interesting Notes

 

Interesting Notes About SEIUN KAKU JAPANESE MAPLE

  • Name Translation: "Seiun kaku" translates to "blue-green palace in the clouds," referencing its layered canopy effect.

  • Kansai Origin: This cultivar originated in Japan's Kansai district and was introduced in 1974.

  • Mikawa Relative: It is often considered a more vigorous relative of 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' due to its tight internodes and layered branching.

  • Layered Architecture: The combination of horizontal major branches and vertical secondary twigs creates its distinctive "cloud" structure.

  • Recent U.S. Arrival: Seiun Kaku became more widely available in the United States around 2008, increasing its collector appeal.

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