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Neoshirakia japonica

A small tree or shrub to 8m tall with elliptic , mid- to dark green leaves that turn shades of red and yellow in autumn. Inconspicuous, greenish-yellow flowers in thin catkins are followed by three-lobed, hanging seed capsules

Synonyms
Sapium japonicum

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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Yellow Green
Autumn Red Yellow
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A small genus of deciduous shrubs or small trees, native to east Asia, of which only Neoshirakia japonica is known to be in cultivation. It is grown for its large, leathery foliage which turns intense shades of bright red in the autumn

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade; may benefit from planting in a sheltered position against a south- or west-facing wall in areas prone to cold winters

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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