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Acer palmatum Kogane Nishiki is a rare and striking cultivar of the Japanese maple, admired for its colourful variegated foliage and elegant growth. The name Kogane Nishiki roughly translates from Japanese as golden brocade, reflecting the plants intricate and beautiful leaf patterns.
Foliage: Palmate leaves have a delicate, cream to yellow variegation splashed across fresh green, often with soft pink or bronze tones on the edges when young. In autumn, foliage transforms into a rich tapestry of gold, orange and crimson, producing a multi-coloured display.
Habit: Forms a small, upright, bushy tree, generally reaching 2.53.5 metres high with a similar spread over many years. Its rounded, slightly layered canopy gives it a soft, airy appearance.
Bark: Smooth grey stems add winter interest once the leaves have fallen.
This Japanese maple is perfect as a specimen in a sheltered border, courtyard or Japanese-style garden where its fine colours and delicate variegation can be fully appreciated.
Prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
A little morning sun helps maintain bright colour, but protect from hot afternoon sun to prevent scorching of the variegated leaves, which are more sensitive than solid green forms.
Important to plant in a protected position, away from strong, drying winds which can damage the delicate leaf margins and cause browning.
Likes soil to be consistently moist but well-drained.
Water thoroughly during dry spells, especially when newly planted or grown in containers.
Mulch each spring with compost or bark to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soil.
Avoid very alkaline or heavy clay ground. If necessary, plant in raised beds or containers with ericaceous compost mixed with grit for drainage.
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a specialist feed for acers.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which encourage lush, soft growth that is more vulnerable to wind and frost.
Requires minimal pruning.
Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while dormant.
Avoid hard cutting back which can spoil its naturally graceful structure.
Generally very healthy.
May occasionally suffer aphids on tender new shoots.
Leaf scorch (browned edges or tips) is typically caused by drought, wind or intense sun, not disease.
Well-suited to large pots, making it ideal for patios or small gardens.
Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure the container drains freely, and raise on pot feet.
Water consistently, and in harsh winters protect container roots by wrapping or moving to a sheltered location.