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Dwarf JM Recommendation for Full Sun?

8 years ago

Hello. Recommendation request... looking for a small JM for a full sun location. Zone 5b Cleveland, Ohio. Long-term, would like to keep it to around 6' high and wide. I have a Fireglow nearby that is limbed-up into a tree-form, so I am thinking a shrubby form would be a nice contrast (though not a distinct weeper). I am struggling bouncing back and forth JM websites - size estimates are all over the map. Some of it no doubt is regional growth differences, but I am seeing some misinformation too. I had a Manyo No Sato targeted for this spot previously, but it is growing pretty vigorously and it will likely need more space. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

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Comments (4)

gardengal48 (PNW Z8/9)
8 years ago
If you want a green leaf - and with planting close to the red of Fireglow, I'd consider that a requirement - then I'd look at 'Sharp's Pygmy', 'Hupps Dwarf' or 'Mikawa Yatusbusa'. But these will need monitoring in full sun in summer and perhaps extra attention to watering. Nearly all JM's would prefer to be in at least partial shade or protection from the intense, hot afternoon sun.
hamburglar1
Original Author
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Thanks gardengal. Those are some nice ones. That Mikawa especially looks interesting. Will check it out.

I know full sun is not ideal, but it's what I am living with until my young shade trees grow up. The reds tend to do fine around here in full sun. My next door neighbor has a showpiece Bloodgood in a similar spot and he never waters during summer dry spells (I will). My Manyo no Sato is also thriving in full sun. So it's a calculated risk on my part. If it fails, no big deal.
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Todd C
8 years ago
I have a dwarf called kashima, have had it almost ten years, in texas. It's started as a container plant then in the landscape now it's bonsai (almost) it's a tough plant. I've always wanted kamagata, heard it's a tough plant too.
CEFreeman_GW DC/MD Burbs 7b/8a
8 years ago
I have more than a few in full sun, after my shade tree came down in a tornado. Kamagata, Red Pygmy, Brocade are another few. Old reliable Red Dragon, Garnet, Chantilly Lace, Burgundy Lace, Okigama, Kinran, etc. I'm not thinking of size at the moment, just what I have in full sun. Got lots more, but they're escaping me at the moment.

The real reason I wanted to write, is that I've gone through the same trouble with totally conflicting information. (Hellebores and Physocarpus, too.) What I do is look for a known JM nursery that handles trees in my area/zone. I'm in 7b, but with the microclimate NCPC says I'm in, I get markedly less rain than my neighbors just down the road. Constant watering is done on a timer, just before dawn so it'll dry before the sun burns the leaves. But I think winter protection would be more of an issue for you.

That said, I haven't used nurseries in my actual area, but looked elsewhere with similar, more southern, drier climes. Cleveland would be tough, given it's so much further north, but start asking around. I haven't found them to be a good resource for me, but look for your local Bonsai Association or club, whatever they are, can usually help with decent nurseries.

I hope this wandering post helps.

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