Green cascade

Character & interest

‘Green Cascade’ stands out first for its shape: a supple framework that droops and spreads, quickly creating a “dome” or “cascade” effect. Then for its late season: it is one of the most appreciated green japonicum cultivars for a multi-coloured autumn display. It also has spring interest with its purple-red flowers that appear as the leaves open.

Colours

• Spring : bright green foliage at budbreak (often very fresh).

• Summer : rich, deep green.

• Autumn : a mix of red / orange / yellow (intensity varies with cool nights and exposure).

Habit & vigour

Cascading, weeping habit, which can be trained:

• either as a naturally weeping cushion (wide, natural form),

• or more upright if you stake/shape a leader in the first years.

Moderate vigour; it becomes denser with age.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• often around 1.5 to 2 m tall in the first years (with an already substantial spread),

• can become a large shrub / small tree of about 3 to 6 m at maturity in the ground, depending on climate, soil and training.

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. Like many Japanese maples, it appreciates a sheltered position (dry winds, scorching afternoon sun).

Origin & history

‘Green Cascade’ is an Acer japonicum cultivar widely distributed, often presented as a selection discovered by Art Wright (USA), dated 1973 in several references. It is also recognised by the RHS and has received the Award of Garden Merit (AGM).