Tatsuta gawa

Character & interest

‘Tatsuta gawa’ is a true “garden” cultivar: calm foliage through the season, a balanced silhouette, and an autumn display that can become very intense. It works very well as an accent tree, in a light woodland scene, or in contrast with dark foliage (purple-leaved plants, conifers).

Colours

• Spring : soft green; some sources report small red/brown tips on young leaves.

• Summer : light green to green.

• Autumn : a palette of orange and yellow, which can evolve towards scarlet / crimson red depending on conditions.

Habit & vigour

Rather upright habit at first, then rounded with age, with the look of an elegant small tree. Moderate vigour, suitable for most gardens (and possible in a large container if watering is managed carefully).

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• about 2.5 m is a height cited in some collections,

• often listed around 3 m at ~10 years,

• as an adult, 3 to 5 m is frequently encountered (depending on soil, climate, and training).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. In a situation that is too hot or windy, foliage quality can deteriorate in summer.

Origin & history

‘Tatsuta gawa’ is described as an old Japanese cultivar, especially known for its brilliant autumn colour.