Japanese Maple Seiryu is a stunning cultivar, known for its upright growth habit and finely dissected leaves. Unlike other cascading 'Dissectum' maples, which are typically weeping, Seiryu grows more vertically, reaching heights of around 3-4m with a spread of 2-3.5m.
Its vibrant green leaves provide a soft, airy texture throughout spring and summer, transitioning to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Perfect for small gardens, Japanese-style landscapes, or container planting, 'Seiryu' thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil. Its moderate growth rate (30-60cm a year) and versatile nature make it a versatile choice for gardeners seeking elegance and year-round interest.
SIZE
Pot size: 33cm pot
Height: 180-200cm
Width: 80-100cm
Weight: 8kg
CARE GUIDE
Lighting:
In Melbourne, Seiryu prefers partial shade, especially in summer, to avoid leaf scorch from the intense summer sun and heat.
Watering:
Newly planted trees (1-3 years old): Water deeply 2-3 times per week during the warmer months (spring through summer). The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Established trees (4+ years): Once the tree is established, water once a week, adjusting based on weather conditions. Increase to twice a week in summer.
During periods of rain, reduce or skip watering to avoid overwatering.
A layer of mulch around the base of the tree will help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, which is especially beneficial during Melbourne's hot summers.
Fertilizer:
Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in spring or early summer. Avoid over-fertilizing and high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can cause excessive growth and stress the tree. Japanese maples prefer light feeding.
Alternatively, a layer of rich compost can provide gentle nutrients throughout the growing season.
Soil:
Bloodgood thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Here’s a good soil mix for Japanese maples:
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40% organic compost (like leaf mold or well-aged compost) to provide nutrients and improve soil structure.
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30% pine bark or other fine bark, which helps with drainage and retains moisture without becoming soggy.
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20% coarse sand or perlite to enhance drainage and prevent waterlogging.
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10% garden loam or topsoil for some added structure and nutrient retention.
The ideal pH range is slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5. It’s important that the soil drains well, as Japanese maples are sensitive to soggy roots. Adding a layer of mulch on top can also help retain moisture and keep roots cool.
NOTE!!! If your garden soil is clay-based, you may need to amend it by adding organic matter or compost to improve drainage and soil quality.
Pruning:
Pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth starts will help maintain the tree’s size and shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Pet-friendly: The Japanese Maple Tree is safe for pets
