Seiryu Japanese Maple - Acer palmatum dissectum 'Seiryu'
Regular price
$595.00
Title
The Only Upright-Growing Lace Leaf Japanese Maple
The Seiryu Japanese Maple is the only upright growing lace leaf Japanese Maple in the world - a deciduous shrub or small tree that combines the delicate, deeply cut foliage of a laceleaf japanese maple with a true vertical structure. If you've wanted the feathery elegance of an acer palmatum dissectum without the weeping, cascading form, this is the cultivar that delivers. Seiryu translates to "Blue-Green Dragon," and the name fits: this tree rises with architectural presence, its finely dissected leaves catching light and breeze like no other maple in the landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rare upright habit with lace-cut foliage – No other laceleaf japanese maple grows upright. Seiryu breaks every expectation with its unique upright, broadly columnar growth habit that adds vertical scale to any garden.
-
Fast-growing specimen tree – The Seiryu Japanese Maple grows 14–16 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide in roughly 10 years, reaching mature presence faster than most japanese maple cultivars.
-
Spectacular seasonal color – Seiryu is known for its vibrant foliage color during different seasons. Leaves are light green in spring and medium green in summer, then the tree turns fiery shades of gold, orange, and crimson in fall. Fall color is bright red before leaves drop - a showstopper from early autumn through leaf fall.
-
Hardy across climates – Suitable for growing zones 5–9, this acer palmatum handles both cold winters and warm summers. Seiryu is heat-tolerant, suitable for warmer climates including much of California.
-
Perfect specimen scale – Tall enough to anchor a yard, refined enough not to overwhelm. Seiryu's upright habit makes it suitable for small gardens or borders, entryways, and medium-to-large landscape designs alike.
What Makes It Different
Most lace leaf Japanese maples - think 'Crimson Queen,' 'Red Filigree Lace,' or 'English Lace' - grow with weeping, mounding forms that cascade toward the ground. They're beautiful, but they take up horizontal space, block sightlines, and limit what you can plant beneath them.
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' offers:
-
True upright architecture – Where every other acer palmatum var. dissectum weeps or cascades, Seiryu rises with a vase-shaped to broadly columnar form. It is the only variety that combines lace leaf beauty with upright specimen tree form.
-
Smaller, finer dissected leaves – The foliage is smaller and thinner than typical dissectum varieties, creating an airy, feathery texture that reads as a "green cloud" in the landscape rather than a dense canopy.
-
Faster growth rate – At 12–18 inches per year once established, Seiryu outpaces most laceleaf japanese maple cultivars, letting you enjoy a mature tree sooner without sacrificing ornamental beauty.
If you've been comparing japanese maple options and want something that stands apart - literally and visually - from compact, variegated choices like the Butterfly Japanese Maple, this is the cultivar to add.
How To Grow Seiryu Japanese Maple Successfully
-
Plant in the right spot Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Seiryu prefers moist, slightly acidic, and well-drained soils amended with organically rich compost. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas. Spring or fall planting works best in California climates.
-
Let it grow naturally Seiryu requires very little pruning. Allow the natural upright growth to develop its columnar shape. A thick layer of mulch around the root zone helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during hot summers. Young Seiryu trees need regular watering while establishing - consistent soil moisture in the first 2–3 years is critical.
-
Enjoy year-round beauty Watch new growth emerge bright green each spring, deepen to medium green through summer, then transition to fiery red, orange, gold, and burgundy in autumn. Within 10–15 years, you'll have a mature specimen tree with genuine architectural presence.
Product Details
-
Botanical name: Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' (genus name: Acer; native to Japan, China, and Korea)
-
Mature size: 14–16 feet tall, 10–12 feet wide
-
Growth habit: Upright, broadly columnar; becomes more rounded with maturity
-
Hardiness zones: USDA 5–9; for a larger shade tree with brilliant fall color, consider the Rocky Mountain Glow maple in suitable climates
-
Growth rate: 12–18 inches per year once established
-
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade preferred in hot climates
-
Soil needs: Well drained soils, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), organically rich
-
Foliage: Deeply cut, lace-like dissected leaves; light green in spring, medium green in summer, bright red and orange in fall
-
Maintenance: Minimal pruning; mulch to maintain soil moisture; protect from leaf scorch in extreme heat
-
Known pests: Watch for aphids and scale; generally low-maintenance
-
Container growing: Can be grown in containers, though in-ground planting allows full height and spread
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners with medium to large garden spaces looking for a specimen tree with four-season interest, or those comparing with drought-tolerant options like the California Pepper Tree
-
Gardeners wanting a unique japanese maple that grows upright rather than weeping - perfect as a focal point in any yard
-
Landscape professionals designing projects that need upright trees with delicate foliage, border accents, or layered plantings with shrubs and groundcovers, perhaps combining Seiryu with low-maintenance grasses such as Autumn Moor Grass
-
Plant collectors seeking rare japanese maple varieties - Seiryu fills a niche no other cultivar occupies, and pairs well with classic red selections such as Bloodgood Japanese Maple
-
Anyone growing in containers on patios or courtyards who wants lace leaf texture in a compact, vertical form and might also consider upright container-friendly cultivars like Emperor One Japanese Maple
If you want the refined beauty of a laceleaf japanese maple with the stature of an upright tree, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really the only upright lace leaf Japanese maple? Yes. Among all acer palmatum dissectum cultivars - which number in the hundreds - Seiryu is the only one that grows with a true upright habit. Every other laceleaf japanese maple weeps or cascades. This is what makes the cultivar so prized by collectors and designers worldwide.
How fast does it grow compared to other Japanese maples? Seiryu is considered fast-growing for a laceleaf, adding 12–18 inches of height per year once established. Most weeping dissectum types grow significantly slower. You can expect a mature tree reaching 14–16 feet tall within about 10 years under favorable conditions.
What are the best growing conditions in California? Coastal and Bay Area gardens can offer more direct sun, and many gardeners in these regions also weave in drought-tolerant natives such as California lilac (Ceanothus). Inland valleys and hotter climate zones should provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Amend alkaline or clay soils to achieve slightly acidic, well drained conditions. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid planting near reflective surfaces like stone or concrete that amplify heat.
When is the best time to plant? Spring or fall, when soil is workable and temperatures are moderate. Fall planting in California can be especially effective - it gives roots time to establish before summer heat returns, just as with other upright Japanese maples like Osakazuki.
Does it need special care or pruning? Seiryu requires very little pruning. Avoid topping or heavy structural cuts that can spoil the natural upright shape. Focus care on consistent watering during the establishment period, maintaining a thick mulch layer at the base, and providing afternoon shade in hot climates. Watch for aphids and scale, which can occasionally occur but are rarely serious, similar to how gardeners monitor for pests on sun-loving vines like purple bougainvillea.
Ready to Add This Rare Beauty to Your Garden?
Stop settling for common japanese maple varieties or weeping forms that crowd your landscape. The Seiryu Japanese Maple offers something no other tree can - lace leaf elegance in a true upright form, with spectacular fall color and a growth rate that rewards your patience quickly.
The Only Upright-Growing Lace Leaf Japanese Maple
The Seiryu Japanese Maple is the only upright growing lace leaf Japanese Maple in the world - a deciduous shrub or small tree that combines the delicate, deeply cut foliage of a laceleaf japanese maple with a true vertical structure. If you've wanted the feathery elegance of an acer palmatum dissectum without the weeping, cascading form, this is the cultivar that delivers. Seiryu translates to "Blue-Green Dragon," and the name fits: this tree rises with architectural presence, its finely dissected leaves catching light and breeze like no other maple in the landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rare upright habit with lace-cut foliage – No other laceleaf japanese maple grows upright. Seiryu breaks every expectation with its unique upright, broadly columnar growth habit that adds vertical scale to any garden.
-
Fast-growing specimen tree – The Seiryu Japanese Maple grows 14–16 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide in roughly 10 years, reaching mature presence faster than most japanese maple cultivars.
-
Spectacular seasonal color – Seiryu is known for its vibrant foliage color during different seasons. Leaves are light green in spring and medium green in summer, then the tree turns fiery shades of gold, orange, and crimson in fall. Fall color is bright red before leaves drop - a showstopper from early autumn through leaf fall.
-
Hardy across climates – Suitable for growing zones 5–9, this acer palmatum handles both cold winters and warm summers. Seiryu is heat-tolerant, suitable for warmer climates including much of California.
-
Perfect specimen scale – Tall enough to anchor a yard, refined enough not to overwhelm. Seiryu's upright habit makes it suitable for small gardens or borders, entryways, and medium-to-large landscape designs alike.
What Makes It Different
Most lace leaf Japanese maples - think 'Crimson Queen,' 'Red Filigree Lace,' or 'English Lace' - grow with weeping, mounding forms that cascade toward the ground. They're beautiful, but they take up horizontal space, block sightlines, and limit what you can plant beneath them.
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' offers:
-
True upright architecture – Where every other acer palmatum var. dissectum weeps or cascades, Seiryu rises with a vase-shaped to broadly columnar form. It is the only variety that combines lace leaf beauty with upright specimen tree form.
-
Smaller, finer dissected leaves – The foliage is smaller and thinner than typical dissectum varieties, creating an airy, feathery texture that reads as a "green cloud" in the landscape rather than a dense canopy.
-
Faster growth rate – At 12–18 inches per year once established, Seiryu outpaces most laceleaf japanese maple cultivars, letting you enjoy a mature tree sooner without sacrificing ornamental beauty.
If you've been comparing japanese maple options and want something that stands apart - literally and visually - from compact, variegated choices like the Butterfly Japanese Maple, this is the cultivar to add.
How To Grow Seiryu Japanese Maple Successfully
-
Plant in the right spot Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Seiryu prefers moist, slightly acidic, and well-drained soils amended with organically rich compost. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas. Spring or fall planting works best in California climates.
-
Let it grow naturally Seiryu requires very little pruning. Allow the natural upright growth to develop its columnar shape. A thick layer of mulch around the root zone helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during hot summers. Young Seiryu trees need regular watering while establishing - consistent soil moisture in the first 2–3 years is critical.
-
Enjoy year-round beauty Watch new growth emerge bright green each spring, deepen to medium green through summer, then transition to fiery red, orange, gold, and burgundy in autumn. Within 10–15 years, you'll have a mature specimen tree with genuine architectural presence.
Product Details
-
Botanical name: Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' (genus name: Acer; native to Japan, China, and Korea)
-
Mature size: 14–16 feet tall, 10–12 feet wide
-
Growth habit: Upright, broadly columnar; becomes more rounded with maturity
-
Hardiness zones: USDA 5–9; for a larger shade tree with brilliant fall color, consider the Rocky Mountain Glow maple in suitable climates
-
Growth rate: 12–18 inches per year once established
-
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade preferred in hot climates
-
Soil needs: Well drained soils, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), organically rich
-
Foliage: Deeply cut, lace-like dissected leaves; light green in spring, medium green in summer, bright red and orange in fall
-
Maintenance: Minimal pruning; mulch to maintain soil moisture; protect from leaf scorch in extreme heat
-
Known pests: Watch for aphids and scale; generally low-maintenance
-
Container growing: Can be grown in containers, though in-ground planting allows full height and spread
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners with medium to large garden spaces looking for a specimen tree with four-season interest, or those comparing with drought-tolerant options like the California Pepper Tree
-
Gardeners wanting a unique japanese maple that grows upright rather than weeping - perfect as a focal point in any yard
-
Landscape professionals designing projects that need upright trees with delicate foliage, border accents, or layered plantings with shrubs and groundcovers, perhaps combining Seiryu with low-maintenance grasses such as Autumn Moor Grass
-
Plant collectors seeking rare japanese maple varieties - Seiryu fills a niche no other cultivar occupies, and pairs well with classic red selections such as Bloodgood Japanese Maple
-
Anyone growing in containers on patios or courtyards who wants lace leaf texture in a compact, vertical form and might also consider upright container-friendly cultivars like Emperor One Japanese Maple
If you want the refined beauty of a laceleaf japanese maple with the stature of an upright tree, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really the only upright lace leaf Japanese maple? Yes. Among all acer palmatum dissectum cultivars - which number in the hundreds - Seiryu is the only one that grows with a true upright habit. Every other laceleaf japanese maple weeps or cascades. This is what makes the cultivar so prized by collectors and designers worldwide.
How fast does it grow compared to other Japanese maples? Seiryu is considered fast-growing for a laceleaf, adding 12–18 inches of height per year once established. Most weeping dissectum types grow significantly slower. You can expect a mature tree reaching 14–16 feet tall within about 10 years under favorable conditions.
What are the best growing conditions in California? Coastal and Bay Area gardens can offer more direct sun, and many gardeners in these regions also weave in drought-tolerant natives such as California lilac (Ceanothus). Inland valleys and hotter climate zones should provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Amend alkaline or clay soils to achieve slightly acidic, well drained conditions. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid planting near reflective surfaces like stone or concrete that amplify heat.
When is the best time to plant? Spring or fall, when soil is workable and temperatures are moderate. Fall planting in California can be especially effective - it gives roots time to establish before summer heat returns, just as with other upright Japanese maples like Osakazuki.
Does it need special care or pruning? Seiryu requires very little pruning. Avoid topping or heavy structural cuts that can spoil the natural upright shape. Focus care on consistent watering during the establishment period, maintaining a thick mulch layer at the base, and providing afternoon shade in hot climates. Watch for aphids and scale, which can occasionally occur but are rarely serious, similar to how gardeners monitor for pests on sun-loving vines like purple bougainvillea.
Ready to Add This Rare Beauty to Your Garden?
Stop settling for common japanese maple varieties or weeping forms that crowd your landscape. The Seiryu Japanese Maple offers something no other tree can - lace leaf elegance in a true upright form, with spectacular fall color and a growth rate that rewards your patience quickly.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Seiryu Japanese Maple - Acer palmatum dissectum 'Seiryu'
Regular price
$595.00
Title
The Only Upright-Growing Lace Leaf Japanese Maple
The Seiryu Japanese Maple is the only upright growing lace leaf Japanese Maple in the world - a deciduous shrub or small tree that combines the delicate, deeply cut foliage of a laceleaf japanese maple with a true vertical structure. If you've wanted the feathery elegance of an acer palmatum dissectum without the weeping, cascading form, this is the cultivar that delivers. Seiryu translates to "Blue-Green Dragon," and the name fits: this tree rises with architectural presence, its finely dissected leaves catching light and breeze like no other maple in the landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rare upright habit with lace-cut foliage – No other laceleaf japanese maple grows upright. Seiryu breaks every expectation with its unique upright, broadly columnar growth habit that adds vertical scale to any garden.
-
Fast-growing specimen tree – The Seiryu Japanese Maple grows 14–16 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide in roughly 10 years, reaching mature presence faster than most japanese maple cultivars.
-
Spectacular seasonal color – Seiryu is known for its vibrant foliage color during different seasons. Leaves are light green in spring and medium green in summer, then the tree turns fiery shades of gold, orange, and crimson in fall. Fall color is bright red before leaves drop - a showstopper from early autumn through leaf fall.
-
Hardy across climates – Suitable for growing zones 5–9, this acer palmatum handles both cold winters and warm summers. Seiryu is heat-tolerant, suitable for warmer climates including much of California.
-
Perfect specimen scale – Tall enough to anchor a yard, refined enough not to overwhelm. Seiryu's upright habit makes it suitable for small gardens or borders, entryways, and medium-to-large landscape designs alike.
What Makes It Different
Most lace leaf Japanese maples - think 'Crimson Queen,' 'Red Filigree Lace,' or 'English Lace' - grow with weeping, mounding forms that cascade toward the ground. They're beautiful, but they take up horizontal space, block sightlines, and limit what you can plant beneath them.
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' offers:
-
True upright architecture – Where every other acer palmatum var. dissectum weeps or cascades, Seiryu rises with a vase-shaped to broadly columnar form. It is the only variety that combines lace leaf beauty with upright specimen tree form.
-
Smaller, finer dissected leaves – The foliage is smaller and thinner than typical dissectum varieties, creating an airy, feathery texture that reads as a "green cloud" in the landscape rather than a dense canopy.
-
Faster growth rate – At 12–18 inches per year once established, Seiryu outpaces most laceleaf japanese maple cultivars, letting you enjoy a mature tree sooner without sacrificing ornamental beauty.
If you've been comparing japanese maple options and want something that stands apart - literally and visually - from compact, variegated choices like the Butterfly Japanese Maple, this is the cultivar to add.
How To Grow Seiryu Japanese Maple Successfully
-
Plant in the right spot Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Seiryu prefers moist, slightly acidic, and well-drained soils amended with organically rich compost. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas. Spring or fall planting works best in California climates.
-
Let it grow naturally Seiryu requires very little pruning. Allow the natural upright growth to develop its columnar shape. A thick layer of mulch around the root zone helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during hot summers. Young Seiryu trees need regular watering while establishing - consistent soil moisture in the first 2–3 years is critical.
-
Enjoy year-round beauty Watch new growth emerge bright green each spring, deepen to medium green through summer, then transition to fiery red, orange, gold, and burgundy in autumn. Within 10–15 years, you'll have a mature specimen tree with genuine architectural presence.
Product Details
-
Botanical name: Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' (genus name: Acer; native to Japan, China, and Korea)
-
Mature size: 14–16 feet tall, 10–12 feet wide
-
Growth habit: Upright, broadly columnar; becomes more rounded with maturity
-
Hardiness zones: USDA 5–9; for a larger shade tree with brilliant fall color, consider the Rocky Mountain Glow maple in suitable climates
-
Growth rate: 12–18 inches per year once established
-
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade preferred in hot climates
-
Soil needs: Well drained soils, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), organically rich
-
Foliage: Deeply cut, lace-like dissected leaves; light green in spring, medium green in summer, bright red and orange in fall
-
Maintenance: Minimal pruning; mulch to maintain soil moisture; protect from leaf scorch in extreme heat
-
Known pests: Watch for aphids and scale; generally low-maintenance
-
Container growing: Can be grown in containers, though in-ground planting allows full height and spread
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners with medium to large garden spaces looking for a specimen tree with four-season interest, or those comparing with drought-tolerant options like the California Pepper Tree
-
Gardeners wanting a unique japanese maple that grows upright rather than weeping - perfect as a focal point in any yard
-
Landscape professionals designing projects that need upright trees with delicate foliage, border accents, or layered plantings with shrubs and groundcovers, perhaps combining Seiryu with low-maintenance grasses such as Autumn Moor Grass
-
Plant collectors seeking rare japanese maple varieties - Seiryu fills a niche no other cultivar occupies, and pairs well with classic red selections such as Bloodgood Japanese Maple
-
Anyone growing in containers on patios or courtyards who wants lace leaf texture in a compact, vertical form and might also consider upright container-friendly cultivars like Emperor One Japanese Maple
If you want the refined beauty of a laceleaf japanese maple with the stature of an upright tree, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really the only upright lace leaf Japanese maple? Yes. Among all acer palmatum dissectum cultivars - which number in the hundreds - Seiryu is the only one that grows with a true upright habit. Every other laceleaf japanese maple weeps or cascades. This is what makes the cultivar so prized by collectors and designers worldwide.
How fast does it grow compared to other Japanese maples? Seiryu is considered fast-growing for a laceleaf, adding 12–18 inches of height per year once established. Most weeping dissectum types grow significantly slower. You can expect a mature tree reaching 14–16 feet tall within about 10 years under favorable conditions.
What are the best growing conditions in California? Coastal and Bay Area gardens can offer more direct sun, and many gardeners in these regions also weave in drought-tolerant natives such as California lilac (Ceanothus). Inland valleys and hotter climate zones should provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Amend alkaline or clay soils to achieve slightly acidic, well drained conditions. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid planting near reflective surfaces like stone or concrete that amplify heat.
When is the best time to plant? Spring or fall, when soil is workable and temperatures are moderate. Fall planting in California can be especially effective - it gives roots time to establish before summer heat returns, just as with other upright Japanese maples like Osakazuki.
Does it need special care or pruning? Seiryu requires very little pruning. Avoid topping or heavy structural cuts that can spoil the natural upright shape. Focus care on consistent watering during the establishment period, maintaining a thick mulch layer at the base, and providing afternoon shade in hot climates. Watch for aphids and scale, which can occasionally occur but are rarely serious, similar to how gardeners monitor for pests on sun-loving vines like purple bougainvillea.
Ready to Add This Rare Beauty to Your Garden?
Stop settling for common japanese maple varieties or weeping forms that crowd your landscape. The Seiryu Japanese Maple offers something no other tree can - lace leaf elegance in a true upright form, with spectacular fall color and a growth rate that rewards your patience quickly.
The Only Upright-Growing Lace Leaf Japanese Maple
The Seiryu Japanese Maple is the only upright growing lace leaf Japanese Maple in the world - a deciduous shrub or small tree that combines the delicate, deeply cut foliage of a laceleaf japanese maple with a true vertical structure. If you've wanted the feathery elegance of an acer palmatum dissectum without the weeping, cascading form, this is the cultivar that delivers. Seiryu translates to "Blue-Green Dragon," and the name fits: this tree rises with architectural presence, its finely dissected leaves catching light and breeze like no other maple in the landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Rare upright habit with lace-cut foliage – No other laceleaf japanese maple grows upright. Seiryu breaks every expectation with its unique upright, broadly columnar growth habit that adds vertical scale to any garden.
-
Fast-growing specimen tree – The Seiryu Japanese Maple grows 14–16 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide in roughly 10 years, reaching mature presence faster than most japanese maple cultivars.
-
Spectacular seasonal color – Seiryu is known for its vibrant foliage color during different seasons. Leaves are light green in spring and medium green in summer, then the tree turns fiery shades of gold, orange, and crimson in fall. Fall color is bright red before leaves drop - a showstopper from early autumn through leaf fall.
-
Hardy across climates – Suitable for growing zones 5–9, this acer palmatum handles both cold winters and warm summers. Seiryu is heat-tolerant, suitable for warmer climates including much of California.
-
Perfect specimen scale – Tall enough to anchor a yard, refined enough not to overwhelm. Seiryu's upright habit makes it suitable for small gardens or borders, entryways, and medium-to-large landscape designs alike.
What Makes It Different
Most lace leaf Japanese maples - think 'Crimson Queen,' 'Red Filigree Lace,' or 'English Lace' - grow with weeping, mounding forms that cascade toward the ground. They're beautiful, but they take up horizontal space, block sightlines, and limit what you can plant beneath them.
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' offers:
-
True upright architecture – Where every other acer palmatum var. dissectum weeps or cascades, Seiryu rises with a vase-shaped to broadly columnar form. It is the only variety that combines lace leaf beauty with upright specimen tree form.
-
Smaller, finer dissected leaves – The foliage is smaller and thinner than typical dissectum varieties, creating an airy, feathery texture that reads as a "green cloud" in the landscape rather than a dense canopy.
-
Faster growth rate – At 12–18 inches per year once established, Seiryu outpaces most laceleaf japanese maple cultivars, letting you enjoy a mature tree sooner without sacrificing ornamental beauty.
If you've been comparing japanese maple options and want something that stands apart - literally and visually - from compact, variegated choices like the Butterfly Japanese Maple, this is the cultivar to add.
How To Grow Seiryu Japanese Maple Successfully
-
Plant in the right spot Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Seiryu prefers moist, slightly acidic, and well-drained soils amended with organically rich compost. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas. Spring or fall planting works best in California climates.
-
Let it grow naturally Seiryu requires very little pruning. Allow the natural upright growth to develop its columnar shape. A thick layer of mulch around the root zone helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during hot summers. Young Seiryu trees need regular watering while establishing - consistent soil moisture in the first 2–3 years is critical.
-
Enjoy year-round beauty Watch new growth emerge bright green each spring, deepen to medium green through summer, then transition to fiery red, orange, gold, and burgundy in autumn. Within 10–15 years, you'll have a mature specimen tree with genuine architectural presence.
Product Details
-
Botanical name: Acer palmatum 'Seiryu' (genus name: Acer; native to Japan, China, and Korea)
-
Mature size: 14–16 feet tall, 10–12 feet wide
-
Growth habit: Upright, broadly columnar; becomes more rounded with maturity
-
Hardiness zones: USDA 5–9; for a larger shade tree with brilliant fall color, consider the Rocky Mountain Glow maple in suitable climates
-
Growth rate: 12–18 inches per year once established
-
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade preferred in hot climates
-
Soil needs: Well drained soils, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), organically rich
-
Foliage: Deeply cut, lace-like dissected leaves; light green in spring, medium green in summer, bright red and orange in fall
-
Maintenance: Minimal pruning; mulch to maintain soil moisture; protect from leaf scorch in extreme heat
-
Known pests: Watch for aphids and scale; generally low-maintenance
-
Container growing: Can be grown in containers, though in-ground planting allows full height and spread
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners with medium to large garden spaces looking for a specimen tree with four-season interest, or those comparing with drought-tolerant options like the California Pepper Tree
-
Gardeners wanting a unique japanese maple that grows upright rather than weeping - perfect as a focal point in any yard
-
Landscape professionals designing projects that need upright trees with delicate foliage, border accents, or layered plantings with shrubs and groundcovers, perhaps combining Seiryu with low-maintenance grasses such as Autumn Moor Grass
-
Plant collectors seeking rare japanese maple varieties - Seiryu fills a niche no other cultivar occupies, and pairs well with classic red selections such as Bloodgood Japanese Maple
-
Anyone growing in containers on patios or courtyards who wants lace leaf texture in a compact, vertical form and might also consider upright container-friendly cultivars like Emperor One Japanese Maple
If you want the refined beauty of a laceleaf japanese maple with the stature of an upright tree, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really the only upright lace leaf Japanese maple? Yes. Among all acer palmatum dissectum cultivars - which number in the hundreds - Seiryu is the only one that grows with a true upright habit. Every other laceleaf japanese maple weeps or cascades. This is what makes the cultivar so prized by collectors and designers worldwide.
How fast does it grow compared to other Japanese maples? Seiryu is considered fast-growing for a laceleaf, adding 12–18 inches of height per year once established. Most weeping dissectum types grow significantly slower. You can expect a mature tree reaching 14–16 feet tall within about 10 years under favorable conditions.
What are the best growing conditions in California? Coastal and Bay Area gardens can offer more direct sun, and many gardeners in these regions also weave in drought-tolerant natives such as California lilac (Ceanothus). Inland valleys and hotter climate zones should provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Amend alkaline or clay soils to achieve slightly acidic, well drained conditions. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid planting near reflective surfaces like stone or concrete that amplify heat.
When is the best time to plant? Spring or fall, when soil is workable and temperatures are moderate. Fall planting in California can be especially effective - it gives roots time to establish before summer heat returns, just as with other upright Japanese maples like Osakazuki.
Does it need special care or pruning? Seiryu requires very little pruning. Avoid topping or heavy structural cuts that can spoil the natural upright shape. Focus care on consistent watering during the establishment period, maintaining a thick mulch layer at the base, and providing afternoon shade in hot climates. Watch for aphids and scale, which can occasionally occur but are rarely serious, similar to how gardeners monitor for pests on sun-loving vines like purple bougainvillea.
Ready to Add This Rare Beauty to Your Garden?
Stop settling for common japanese maple varieties or weeping forms that crowd your landscape. The Seiryu Japanese Maple offers something no other tree can - lace leaf elegance in a true upright form, with spectacular fall color and a growth rate that rewards your patience quickly.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.