Kalmthout

Character & interest

This cultivar delivers the classic “full moon” look: broad leaves, a soft texture, and a small-tree silhouette. The appeal is twofold: dense, decorative summer foliage, then a very noticeable end-of-season display—especially effective against a dark background (evergreens, dark hedge).

Colours

• Spring : light green; young leaves may show pink tips depending on conditions; the blade can be slightly concave.

• Summer : dark green, more settled foliage.

• Autumn : often bright yellow with injections of red; it can also shift towards stronger orange/red depending on climate, exposure and how cool the soil stays.

Habit & vigour

Large shrub / small tree habit, rather upright at first, then rounded and fuller with age. Moderate vigour: steady growth in fertile soil that remains cool, without being a very fast cultivar.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• often around 1.5 to 2.5 m at about 10 years,

• with possible long-term development towards 3 to 4 m in the ground,

• spread often close to height at maturity (balanced silhouette).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun (morning). Avoid scorching afternoon sun, especially in a hot climate or in a container. A sheltered spot away from drying winds is recommended.

Origin & history

Bright partial shade or gentle sun (morning). Avoid scorching afternoon sun, especially in a hot climate or in a container. A sheltered spot away from drying winds is recommended.