Neoshirakia japonica (syn. Sapium japonicum)

A beautiful plant, native to the woods of Central and Southern Japan, as well as parts of China and Korea. Sapium japonicum has handsome dark green leaves which turn glowing shades of crimson and red in the autumn time before falling.

Once established, greenish-yellow, catkin like flowers can be seen in mid summer. This is both rare in cultivation and widely recognised to have some of the best autumn colours of any tree!

• Position: Warm in full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well drained, lime free, fertile soil. Sapium japonicum generally does not grow well in a shallow, chalky soil.
• Hardiness: Somewhat hardy. Sapium japonicum requires protection from cold winter winds and cold winter weather.
• Flowering Period: June.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Sapium japonicum grows to be a large branching shrub.
  • Height: 4 m (13 ft)
  • Spread: 4 m (13 ft)

• Notes: Also known as Neoshirakia japonica. Please also note that Sapium japonicum can be a fickle and difficult plant and as such is suitable for experienced gardeners only. This plant is not covered by our normal guarantee.