Itami nishiki
‘Itami nishiki’ is a Japanese maple with small, finely cut leaves that are often a little irregular, appreciated for its coloured margins at budbreak: the fresh green is outlined in pink to red. In summer, the foliage becomes green with a more discreet yellow variegation, then autumn brings a warm orange tone. An original cultivar, well suited to containers as well as small gardens.
Character & interest
‘Itami nishiki’ catches the eye with its small foliage, sometimes wavy / slightly distorted, which gives it a very lively texture. The colouring is especially striking on young growth: a pink-red edging highlights the leaf’s green. In summer, the plant looks calmer, while still keeping touches of variegation.
Colours
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Spring : green with a pink/red margin (sometimes pink-orange depending on conditions).
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Summer : green with a yellow variegation that is more or less visible.
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Autumn : orange, sometimes orange-yellow.
Habit & vigour
Rather rounded to upright habit, moderate growth.
Indicative size
As a guide: often around 1.2 m at 10 years (some estimates give 1–1.5 m at 10 years), then about 2 to 4 m at 20 years depending on conditions (in-ground vs container, climate, soil).
Exposure
Bright partial shade or gentle sun. Several reports indicate it can tolerate a sunnier position if the soil remains well-drained and moist (no drought). In a container, protection from drying wind and scorching afternoon sun improves foliage quality.
| Groupe MS | 10. Marginatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Érigé / Arrondi |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert / Rose |
| Couleur Été | Vert / Jaune |
| Couleur Automne | Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
