Beni kagami

Character & interest

This cultivar combines strong colour presence (without being “black” all the time) with finely cut foliage, often described as glossy, which enhances a high-end look in low-angle light. The silhouette is that of a small tree that opens up over time, with shoots that may arch slightly.

Colours

• Spring : orange-red to purple-red (shade varies with exposure).

• Summer : burgundy / purplish-brown, sometimes a little greener in deeper shade.

• Autumn : crimson red.

Habit & vigour

Tree-like habit, rather open / spreading with age. Steady vigour.

Indicative size

Order of magnitude: about 3.5 m after 10 years in good conditions, then a small tree that can reach 4–6 m (sometimes more depending on references and climates).

Exposure

Best results in gentle sun or bright partial shade. Good light helps maintain depth of red; in very hot situations, some afternoon shade improves foliage hold.

Origin & history

Japanese cultivar. The name is generally translated as “red mirror”.