Meet Acer palmatum ssp. matsumurae 'Aka Shigitatsu Sawa', a variation of Japanese Maple that captivates with its vivid spring variegation. Each leaf emerges in spring almost entirely cream, adorned with soft red undertones and striking dark green veins. An exceptional summer transformation awaits, as it adopts a green palette with even darker veins. This specimen requires cautious positioning – provide it with 3-4 hours of morning sun for the red hues to pop, but shield it from harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates. Patience with its slow maturation is rewarded by a stunning round-topped tree, nearly equal in height and width. Eventually, it evolves into a mid-sized Japanese Maple, standing 8-12 ft tall. The bright reticulated veins beautifully highlight the creamy hues and light reddish tones of the leaves. Filtered light or late day shade will best showcase this masterpiece. It makes a splendid focal point for your garden or an attention-grabbing accent amidst bold-coloured leaves or evergreens. Marvellous in its uniqueness, the 'Aka Shigitatsu Sawa' steals the spotlight every spring, delighting its audience. The mother trees offer a strongly variegated cultivar, with leaves that boast some of the most interesting colors of any Japanese Maple.