Large Acer Palmatum Shirazz, a relatively new variety of Acer with amazing variegated foliage. Height and spread at maturity approximately 2.5 metres
Acer Palmatum Shirazz 15 Litre: Acer palmatum 'Shirazz' commonly referred to as Gwen's Rose Delight, origanally cultivated in New Zealand. Shirazz is an extremely eye catching Japanese Maple Acer it has deeply lobed, variegated deciduous leaves of reddish-purple with bright reddish-pink margins in spring, turning grey-green with cream and pink margins in summer, and shades of scarlet in autumn. Overall growth habit is upright although it has slightly red branches Whilst Acer plants are not fully fledged lime hating or ericaceous plants, they do tend to do better when planted in acid soil, if you are in doubt of your soil type sprinkle some sulphur over the planting area, do this during still weather as it will be in dust form this will lower the lime content and raise acid. If pot planting go for a good quality ericaceous compost.
Large established plants in 15 litre pots.
Planting Position: Will tolerate full sun but does better in lightly shaded areas. Plant away from exposed frosty sites, as late spring frosts may damage new foliage.
Soil: While acer plants are not fully fledged Ericaceous or Lime Hating plants they do prefer soil with a high Acid content.
Suitable for container planting: Yes equally as happy in the pot or the ground.
Eventual height and spread: Upto 2.5 metres tall with a 2.5 metre spread.
Growth Speed: Relatively slow.
Growth Habit: Upright and bushy.
Flowering Period: Not applicable.
Pruning: Not really a requirement. However if you choose to, hard Pruning should be done in the dormant months November through to early February. Some light pruning can also be undertaken during the growing season to help create a defined shape for your plant
Foliage: Starts pink then green with a touch of red then dark red in Autumn
Evergreen: No deciduous
Winter Hardy: Yes
Acer plants prefer Acid soil although this is not an absolute necessity it will help the plant reach its full potential. If you have unsuccessfully tried to grow Azalea, Rhododendron, Pieris, Camellias the chances are your soil has a high lime content. Soil can be improved by adding Ericaceous compost to the planting hole this will lower the lime content and raise acid. If pot planted best choice is John Innes Ericaceous Compost this is a specially formulated sterilised loam based, lime free compost with essential foods for plants such as Acer Palmatum. Also in the coldest areas it may be advisable wrap the pots in a winter fleece or bubble wrap during the coldest months, this will help protect the roots. Repotting in fresh compost should be considered every 2 years. Ensure an adequate water supply and feed approximately every 6-8 weeks from early spring through to mid-summer.
