Deshojo Palmate Maple Bonsai (86)

Presentation

Palmate maple bonsai of the Deshojo variety (Acer palmatum 'Deshojo'), a Japanese deciduous tree known for its bright red spring budding that later turns green in summer. A specimen of about 25 years, 59 cm tall, suitable for collectors and experienced hobbyists who know how to manage an outdoor species demanding in terms of water and light.

Technical features

• Botanical species: Acer palmatum var. Deshojo
• Plant height: 59 cm
• Nebari: 2.5 cm
• Age: about 25 years
• Weight: 4.1 kg
• Pot: hexagonal in blue glazed stoneware
• Pot dimensions: diam. 33 x 8.5 cm
• Exposure: outdoor, summer partial shade
• Care difficulty: medium-high

How to care for it

The Deshojo palmate maple is an outdoor plant all year round. It should be placed in a bright spot but sheltered from direct sun during the central summer hours, which easily burn the thin leaves. The Deshojo variety is particularly sensitive to sun exposure: a ventilated partial shade from June to August preserves the color and health of the foliage.

Watering must be regular and abundant during the growing season, avoiding both water stagnation and complete drying of the root ball. In summer it may be necessary to water twice a day. In winter, with the plant bare, water supply is reduced, keeping the substrate just moist.

Fertilization should be carried out from early spring to late autumn with organic fertilizer or one specific for bonsai, suspending it during intense heat and in the winter vegetative pause. A balanced supply favors short internodes and dense branching.

Structural pruning is done at the end of winter, before the awakening; pinching the new shoots during growth maintains the shape and reduces leaf size. Repotting is done every 2-3 years in early spring, with draining substrate based on akadama, pruning the roots.

To learn more about the care of this species, consult the complete botanical sheet.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Why are the leaves red in some areas and green in others?

A: The Deshojo variety buds with intense red leaves in spring, which then gradually turn green as the season progresses. The red areas correspond to the younger shoots, the green ones to mature leaves. This is the typical behavior of this cultivar and does not indicate any health problem with the plant.

Q: Can I keep it indoors?

A: No. The palmate maple is an outdoor species that needs the complete seasonal cycle, including winter rest with leaf loss. Kept in an apartment it deteriorates within a few weeks. It should be placed in a garden, terrace or balcony, sheltered from the scorching summer sun and the icy winds in winter.

Q: How often should it be watered?

A: It depends on the season and climate. In spring and autumn once a day is often sufficient; in summer, with high temperatures, it may be necessary to water morning and evening. Always check the moisture of the substrate: it must remain moist but never soggy. In winter, water is reduced, keeping the soil just moist.

Q: Is it suitable for a beginner?

A: The Deshojo variety has medium-high difficulty due to the sensitivity of the foliage to sun and drought, and due to water management in the warm months. It is more suitable for those who already have experience with maples or outdoor bonsai. A motivated beginner can manage it by paying attention to exposure and watering.

What's included

• Deshojo palmate maple bonsai in a hexagonal blue glazed stoneware pot — the exact specimen in the photo
• Plant certificate (identity card of the specimen with species, measurements and characteristics)
• Reinforced packaging designed to protect the plant during shipping