Lion's Mane Japanese Maple

About this plant

Distinct from its smooth-leaved cousins, Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira' boasts an extraordinary texture, with thick, deeply lobed, and ruffled foliage that gives it the whimsical common name, 'Lion's Mane.' This upright, vase-shaped tree offers year-round visual interest, featuring bright green leaves in spring and summer that transform into a stunning palette of gold, orange, and crimson in the fall. Known for its slow, graceful growth and sculptural branching, 'Shishigashira' makes a magnificent specimen tree for small gardens, courtyards, or as a focal point in larger landscapes. Its architectural form is particularly striking in winter, adding elegance even without its characteristic foliage. Ideal for container planting on patios or as an understory tree, it thrives in dappled shade where its unique leaf form can be admired up close. Its relatively compact size and distinctive beauty make it a premium choice for adding sophisticated character and vibrant seasonal color to any garden design.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Protect from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun, especially in warmer climates. Water regularly during dry periods, particularly when establishing. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or crossing branches.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.