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OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE

OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE

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#6722

OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE

Acer palmatum 'Ojishi'
AKA: Male Lion Japanese Maple

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Please call to pre-order (918) 453-0771.

Root Pouch 5 gallon (SKU: 20026)
0 - Available Now - Details   -   Grown in Root Pouch®.

List Price $195.00 Per Plant

Hardiness Zone: 5-8   ·   Mature Height: 6-10 Feet   ·   Mature Spread: 6-10 Feet

Ojishi Dwarf Upright Japanese Maple, also known as the Male Lion Japanese Maple, is a historic and sculptural cultivar with a presence as bold as its name. First described in Japanese literature of the 1700s, 'Ojishi' is considered the male counterpart to the famous 'Shishigashira' (female lion). Its distinctive curled, crinkled leaves emerge a twisted chartreuse-green in spring, maturing into deep green by summer while maintaining a dense, textured appearance.

Unlike 'Shishigashira', the older foliage of Ojishi Dwarf Upright Japanese Maple tends to flatten slightly, creating a subtle layered effect that highlights the contrast between new and mature growth. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of golden yellow infused with orange, sometimes shifting into coppery red tones late in the season. Its unusual foliage and compact form give it a lion-like mane effect, making it a striking specimen in any garden.

A true dwarf, Ojishi Dwarf Upright Japanese Maple grows slowly, maturing to about 6–10 feet tall with a rounded, upright form. Its dense structure makes it ideal for small gardens, courtyard landscapes, or bonsai. 'Ojishi" rewards with year-round interest, distinctive texture, and enduring garden history.

Family: Sapindaceae / Aceraceae · Common Name: Maple

FREE with every plant purchased:

  • The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
  • A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
  • Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
  • Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
  • Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

DIY Irrigation SuppliesWe use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

 

OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE Plant Characteristics

Bark Color*
Gray
Bark Type*
Smooth
Fruit Type*
Non-Edible Fruit
Growth Habit*
Dwarf/Small Growing
Upright Growing
Specimen
Growth Rate*
Slow
Leaf Color Fall*
Burgundy/Crimson/Maroon
Leaf Color Spring*
Green
Leaf Color Summer*
Green
Leaf Type*
Deciduous/Herbaceous
Nature Assets*
Attracts Birds
Deer Resistant
Plant Type*
Japanese Maple
Preferred Planting Season*
Fall Planting
Spring Planting
Summer Planting
Propagation Methods*
Budding
Graft
Season of Interest*
Early Spring
Fall
Late Spring/Early Summer
Late Summer/Early Autumn
Spring
Summer

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OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

  • Recommended Soil: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils, ranging from neutral to slightly acidic pH best for foliage. Mulch base to conserve moisture and protect roots.
  • Sun Exposure: Shade to partial sun is ideal, and offer protection from afternoon heat. Denser foliage develops in higher light, more open in shade.
  • Irrigation Needs: Keep evenly moist, especially in summer. Deep water weekly during dry spells. Avoid prolonged drought.
  • Feeding & Nutrients: Apply light organic compost in spring. Avoid heavy fertilization, which may cause excessive growth. Beneficial to refresh soil with seasonal organic matter.
  • Pruning & Maintenance: Minimal pruning needed; let it form naturally. Remove dead or crossing branches in late winter. Suitable for bonsai shaping when young.

Interesting Notes About OJISHI DWARF UPRIGHT JAPANESE MAPLE

  • Historic Lineage – Mentioned in Japanese writings from the 1700s, linking it to centuries of horticultural tradition.
  • Male Lion – Named as the counterpart to Shishigashira, the female Lion's Head Japanese Maple.
  • Sculptural Form – Its curled leaves and dense habit resemble a lion's mane in full growth.
  • Distinctive Feature – Unlike Shishigashira, older leaves flatten slightly, creating subtle texture shifts.
  • Versatile Use – Equally suited for small gardens, specimen focal points, and bonsai artistry.