Shirasawa’s maple (Acer shirasawanum, J. Coll. Sci. Imp. Univ. Tokyo 32(1): 38 (1911))

Family: Sapindaceae

Author: Koidz.

Bibliography: J. Coll. Sci. Imp. Univ. Tokyo 32(1): 38 (1911)

Year: 1911

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acer

Vegetable: False

Observations: Japan (C. & W. Honshu, Shikoku)

Description

Shirasawa’s maple, scientifically known as Acer shirasawanum, is a fascinating species of maple tree recognized for its distinct characteristics and historical significance. This enchanting tree is native to Japan, specifically found in the central and western regions of Honshu as well as Shikoku.

Belonging to the Sapindaceae family, Shirasawa’s maple stands out due to its ornamental value and vibrant foliage. Its leaves are typically rounded and lobed, creating a captivating display of color transitions throughout the seasons. In spring, the fresh leaves unfold in a tender green shade that gradually deepens, and come autumn, they burst into a spectacular array of yellows, oranges, and reds, making this tree a favorite among horticultural enthusiasts and landscapers alike.

The name Acer shirasawanum pays homage to Homi Shirasawa, who first described this species in the early 20th century. The formal academic acknowledgment of Shirasawa’s maple came in 1911, documented by Koidz. in the Journal of the College of Science, Imperial University of Tokyo.

Cultivating Shirasawa’s maple can be a rewarding endeavor, as it thrives in well-drained soils with moderate moisture. It prefers a position that receives partial to full sunlight, yet it can often be seen flourishing in dappled woodland settings. Its resilience and adaptability make it a versatile choice for various garden designs and urban landscapes.

Given its aesthetic appeal and adaptability, Shirasawa’s maple has found a special place in both traditional Japanese gardens and contemporary plantings worldwide. Its compact size and elegant branching structure make it particularly suitable for smaller gardens and container growing.

In sum, Shirasawa’s maple is not just a testament to botanical beauty but also a symbol of the rich horticultural tradition of Japan. Its presence in gardens continues to inspire and enchant those who appreciate the subtle elegance and vibrant life cycle of this remarkable tree species.

Common Names

Eng: shirasawa’s maple, golden full-moon maple, full moon maple, shirasawa maple
Deu: shirasawa-ahorn
Swe: shirasawalönn
Jpn: oitayameigetsu
En: Shirasawa’s maple, Golden full-moon maple, Full Moon Maple, Shirasawa Maple
De: Shirasawa-Ahorn
Ja: Ō-itaya-meigetsu, Oitayameigetsu
Sv: Shirasawalönn

Synonyms

• Acer japonicum f. aureum ((Siesmayer) Schwer.)
• Acer shirasawanum f. aureum ((Siesmayer) Delendick)
• Acer japonicum var. microphyllum (Siesmayer)
• Acer japonicum var. aureum (Siesmayer)

Distribution

• Japan (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 24, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 24, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 6, 2022 by andrea rabbai (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 26, 2020 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 15, 2021 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 24, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 3, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 6, 2022 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 6, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2020 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 24, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 6, 2022 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Apr 24, 2022 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2020 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Sep 6, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2022 by Chen Mary (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7263086)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:56804-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acer shirasawanum Koidz.)

Specifications

Growth