New Shin Deshojo Leaf Size?

[turnyface]

Just received my new Shin Deshojo from Maple Ridge Nursery.

I think I’m happy with how it arrived, but confused on some aspects of the tree.

1. Can you tell if this is an authentically grafted Shin Deshojo?

2. Is it normal for some of the leaves to be many times larger than others?

3. The pamphlet that came with the tree says the leaf burn is “normal” but it’s apparent on every small leaf.

 

[19Mateo83]

It looks like it got a little too much sun at one point but that new larger growth is a sign that the plant is growing very vigorously. It’s good to have maples that put on growth like that.

 

[Shibui]

Not sure about authentic shindeshojo but it is certainly grafted so I would take the nursery at their word on the cultivar. Most specialists know what they are doing and rely on doing the right thing for future sales.
Leaf size varies depending on the tree's resources, health and available light. Your care seems to be a bit better than the grower so the tree has responded with larger leaves and more growth.
Leaf burn is a fact of life with Japanese maples, especially where we are pushing the boundaries to get short internodes and smaller leaves. It only takes 1 hotter than expected day and not adjusting the watering system to get leaf burn on almost all leaves. Fortunately minor leaf burn does not slow growth too much. Not desirable but acceptable provided you can then sell the tree.

 

[Empty Mountain]

There are a few things that can contribute to bigger leaf size. For example if you keep the tree in shade it will put out bigger leaves to capture more sunlight as a response.

 

[AcerAddict]

Is this your first JM? If so, welcome to the insanity! They are amazing trees. Ranging anywhere from "somewhat" to "very" demanding, they make you work for them, but they are so rewarding in return. Shin Deshojo is a great choice for bonsai. You picked a good Acer palmatum cultivar for that purpose. What are your long-term plans for it?

 

[turnyface]

I also have a Mikawa Yatsubusa, but both JMs are young. I was planning on spending a few years learning how to grow them out and treat them as "mother trees" and try to take air layers for bonsai some years down the road.