Verkade’s winter gold

Character & interest

‘Verkade’s Winter Gold’ stands out for a combination that is rarely found together: strong in-season presence (cut foliage, evolving colours) and winter appeal thanks to the pale colour of the young twigs. It works equally well as a garden accent plant or in a collection, especially if you like maples with colourful wood.

Colours

• Spring : bright green on large, deeply cut leaves.

• Summer : rich green foliage; new shoots can be red-orange (contrast effect).

• Autumn : golden yellow to orange.

• Winter : jeunes rameaux souvent chartreuse (intérêt décoratif).

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, with a silhouette that can become semi-weeping and fairly spreading with age (branches lengthen and open out). Moderate to good vigour.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• around 2.5 m tall for 3 m wide at about 15 years,

• some estimates give about 2.4 m tall for 3 m wide at ~15 years.

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade. In a hot climate, afternoon shade and a sheltered spot (dry wind) improve foliage quality.

Origin & history

‘Verkade’s Winter Gold’ is presented as an introduction from Verkade’s Nursery (USA). The name refers to the chartreuse winter interest of the young twigs, which stands out particularly in the cold season.