Acer palmatum Shirazz

Acer palmatum Shirazz is the trade name for 'Gwen's Rose Delight', a deciduous Japanese maple selected in New Zealand. Its spring foliage opens coral to deep pink, then develops a varied combination of purple, green, cream and white before turning scarlet in autumn. The upright tree develops spreading to arching branches and reaches approximately 2–3 m high in Australian garden references, making it a distinctive feature for a small garden or large container.

Key features

• Botanical name: Acer palmatum 'Gwen's Rose Delight'
• Trade name: Shirazz
• Originator: James Palmer Rumbal
• Origin: New Zealand
• Plant type: deciduous Japanese maple
• Mature height: approximately 2–3 m
• Foliage: coral to deep pink in spring, followed by purple, green, cream and white variegation
• Autumn colour: scarlet
• Flowers: small purple-red flowers in spring
• Growth habit: upright with spreading to arching branches
• Position: partial or dappled shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, moist, acidic to neutral, organic and well-drained
• Container suitability: suitable with regular care

Growing in Australia

For Australian conditions, place Shirazz in partial or dappled shade with protection from intense afternoon sun and drying wind. Regular water and a moisture-retentive but freely draining soil support healthy growth. Australian references list a mature height of approximately 2–3 m; the final spread is not stated reliably in the approved record, so allow generous room for its arching form. It can also be managed in a large container. Foliage colour varies with light, season and local growing conditions.

Care tips

Water regularly during establishment and dry weather without saturating the soil. Mulch the root zone, keeping mulch clear of the trunk. Feed lightly in spring if required. Retain the natural branching structure by limiting pruning to dead, damaged or crossing growth. Container-grown trees need dependable drainage and closer watering attention. Protect tender new foliage during unusually hot or windy periods.

Best uses

• Feature planting
• Japanese-inspired garden
• Small garden
• Large container

Purchase note

Available from Summer Garden. Product availability and plant size may vary by season.

FAQs

How tall does Acer palmatum Shirazz grow?

Australian references list an approximate mature height of 2–3 m.

What colour is Shirazz Japanese maple foliage?

It opens coral to deep pink, becomes variegated purple, green, cream and white, then turns scarlet in autumn.

Can Acer palmatum Shirazz grow in a container?

Yes. It can be grown in a large container with good drainage, regular watering and a sheltered position.