Acer palmatum ‘Ukigumo’ (Japanese Maple)

A fascinating Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum ‘Ukigumo’ or ‘Floating Clouds’ is a deciduous shrub or small tree with the most outstanding variegated foliage. Emerging pale green in spring with white spots and soft pink shades on the edges, the medium-sized leaves are deeply divided and radiate openly. Some leaves may have no markings, while others may be solid white or pink. Later in the season, the pink fades away. Sometimes gracefully twisted and undulated, the elegant foliage turns yellow-orange in fall before shedding to the ground. Slow-growing, this Japanese Maple features a compact, upright habit with short horizontal twigs forming a semi-dense plant and creating an interesting appearance during the dormant season. It is ideal for containers or small gardens.

• Grows up to 7-12 ft. tall (210-360 cm) and 4-8 ft. wide (120-240 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Best leaf color in partial shade, although full sun can be tolerated. A lack of soil moisture or excessive exposure can cause leaf scorch.
• Perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens and containers.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running. Fertilize in spring before the leaves emerge.
• It may be affected by horse chestnut scale, aphids, and verticillium wilt.
• Propagate by grafting or softwood cuttings.
• Acer palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, China, eastern Mongolia, and southeast Russia.