Kumoi nishiki

Character & interest

‘Kumoi nishiki’ stands out for its “dusting” or marbled cream variegation, often spread across the whole leaf blade. The effect is refined and bright, and it remains readable even as the plant becomes denser. Collectors appreciate it because it keeps a strong personality without requiring complicated staging.

Colours

• Spring : light foliage at budbreak, sometimes with a pink tinge, then the variegation establishes quickly.

• Summer : green (from light to deeper) with cream speckling/mottling, generally persistent.

• Autumn : yellow to orange tones, sometimes more nuanced depending on conditions; the variegation remains visible in autumn, which is a very attractive effect.

Habit & vigour

Upright habit. Steady growth. The end result is a harmonious small tree, interesting both in a container and in the ground (especially when you want to enjoy the foliage up close).

Indicative size

A commonly observed guideline: under 3 m at maturity (variable with soil, climate and training).

Exposure

Best results in gentle light / bright partial shade. In hot situations, protection from afternoon sun helps preserve both foliage quality and variegation.

Origin & history

‘Kumoi nishiki’ is a Japanese “full moon” type cultivar. It was distributed in Japan by Kobayashi Momiji En. Locally, it was also known under the name ‘Asagi nishiki’, considered equivalent to ‘Kumoi nishiki’ in that context. In Europe, it is a relatively recent introduction via Guy Maillot. Finally, the name is often interpreted as an evocation of cloudy sky (kumoi) and brocade / precious fabric (nishiki), which fits well with the “light dusting” effect on the foliage.