Source: Wikimedia Commons
Seigen Japanese maple
IntermediateAcer palmatum 'Seigen'
A 'spring maple' of the iroha-momiji group, whose new leaves emerge red and colour well again in autumn. Small-leaved and offering two seasons of colour, it is regularly sold as shohin to medium maple bonsai.
About
Seigen is a cultivar of Japanese maple (Acer palmatum). Japanese bonsai guides divide bonsai maples into the iroha-momiji and yama-momiji groups, and within the former call the cultivars whose new growth emerges red and that colour well in autumn 'spring maples'. Seigen is listed among the representative spring maples, together with Deshojo, Beni-chidori, Chishio, Akebono, Okushimo, Higasayama and Asahizuru. The iroha-momiji group, grown since the Edo period, has small, deeply cut leaves with 5–7 lobes in the wild type. Seigen's highlight is its red spring flush, which fades to green by early summer before colouring again in autumn. It is close in use and habit to Deshojo, and little is documented that separates the two by leaf colour or shape, so rely on proper labelling and a trustworthy source. Little is documented about its origin. The red young leaves are vulnerable to drying and strong light, so during flushing limit sun to the morning and never let it dry out to keep the colour.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (cultivar of Acer palmatum; little documented about its origin)
Lifespan
Little data for the cultivar
Size
Sold as shohin to medium bonsai (little data on mature size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (spring and autumn, sparingly)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Sun and airflow, but the red young leaves are sensitive—give only morning sun while flushing, and shade from the end of the rainy season to early September
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 and again in May; overfeeding finished trees causes leggy growth. Finish autumn feeding by September
Pruning & styling
Pinch the central bud mid-March to mid-April; defoliate or thin leaves in mid-June; prune around leaf fall (winter cuts risk dieback). Wire bites in quickly—remove promptly
Pests & cautions
Aphids on new shoots and powdery mildew from the rainy season. The thin leaves are easily damaged by sprays—follow label rates
Seigen Japanese maple FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Seigen 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 Seigen Japanese maple?
Seigen Japanese maple: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (spring and autumn, sparingly). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Seigen Japanese maple?
The price of Seigen 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 'Seigen' 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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