Source: Wikimedia Commons
Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple
IntermediateAcer palmatum 'Arakawa'
A 'rough-bark' maple whose trunk roughens even when young, quickly giving the look of an old tree. The bark alone tells it apart from the smooth-barked ordinary maple, so even young material can look aged.
About
Arakawa, or rough-bark maple, is a maple cultivar whose bark roughens, and it is regularly sold as bonsai material that gives an aged look quickly. In bonsai terms 'arakawa-sho' (rough-bark character) means bark that roughens and looks old within a short time, even on young trees. Ordinary Japanese maple has smooth, greenish-brown bark, whereas Arakawa's trunk becomes rugged while still young, so it can be recognised by the trunk alone. A Japanese tree guide lists 'Arakawa-sho' among cultivars derived from yama-momiji, and bonsai collections abroad display it as Acer palmatum 'Arakawa'. In the Japanese trade, however, it is often sold under the descriptive names 'arakawa momiji' or 'arakawa-sho momiji', and sources do not confirm that all plants sold as such are one clone. Material called 'ganseki-sho' (rock-bark), which roughens even more, is also offered. Since the bark is the point, keep wiring to a minimum to avoid scarring and shape mainly by pruning. Autumn colour is as good as ordinary maples.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (said to be a rough-bark cultivar derived from yama-momiji; little documented about its origin)
Lifespan
Little data for the cultivar
Size
Sold from shohin to large bonsai (little data on mature size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (spring and autumn)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sun and good airflow; it dislikes afternoon sun, so shade 50–70% from the end of the rainy season to early September to prevent scorch
Watering
Dries fast once in leaf: about twice daily in spring, 2–3 in summer, every 1–2 days in winter, aiming at the soil. Summer drought spoils autumn colour
Temperature & overwintering
Cold-hardy (A. palmatum: USDA zone 5). After leaf fall let it see 2–3 frosts, then shelter from drying wind and late frost
Soil & repotting
Free-draining mix; repot around March before budbreak, every 2–3 years (1–2 for mini), pruning roots to encourage fine feeders
Fertilizer
Organic fertilizer in mid-April once leaves harden, a top-up in May; autumn feeding from mid-August, finishing in September to aid colour
Pruning & styling
The bark is the feature, so keep wiring minimal and shape with pinching (mid-March to mid-April) and pruning. Cut thick branches before budbreak, fine twigs around leaf fall
Pests & cautions
Aphids and scale on new growth and powdery mildew from the rainy season. Thin leaves are easily damaged by sprays—follow label rates
Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple?
Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (spring and autumn). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple?
The price of Arakawa (rough-bark) Japanese maple varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. Not a registered variety under the Plant Variety Protection Act (no entry for 'Arakawa' in the MAFF database, checked Sept 2026).
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search) / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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