Shojo no mai

Character & interest

‘Shojo no mai’ belongs to the “high-contrast” variegated maples: the pink is often placed along the margins and as subtle nuances on the leaf, which gives a crisp, refined look (less “blocky” than large cream variegation). It is often appreciated because the pink effect is vivid in spring and can reappear on new growth.

Colours

• Spring : light green foliage with vivid pink variegation/margins at budbreak.

• Summer : greener foliage, with variegation mainly on young shoots (light pink to pink).

• Autumn : orange (often luminous), sometimes with orange-red nuances.

Habit & vigour

Rather upright and compact habit, with a silhouette that remains easy to integrate. Moderate vigour (steady growth, without becoming invasive).

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• some growers classify it as compact, often under 2 m (especially in restricted cultivation and depending on training),

• other references give 2 to 3 m,

• some sources mention 2 to 3 m at around 10 years, and about 2.5 to 3 m in the longer term (depending on climate, soil and exposure).

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade. A sheltered position (dry winds, scorching sun) improves foliage quality, especially on the variegated margins.