About
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.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeTrees, Shrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina, Korea, Japan
Care notes
CultivationGrow 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
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free