Microphyllum

Character & interest

Its main appeal is the contrast between a “full moon” look and a finer leaf scale, giving a more delicate reading and a very elegant silhouette. It keeps dense summer foliage, then changes very clearly in autumn.

Colours

• Spring : soft green to almost yellow (very luminous).

• Summer : dark green.

• Autumn : yellow to yellow-orange; orange and sometimes red tones may appear depending on exposure, soil moisture/coolness, and temperature swings.

Habit & vigour

Large shrub / small tree habit, rather upright and broad. Moderate vigor: steady growth in cool, moist soil, without being a very fast cultivar.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• around 1.8 to 2.4 m tall at about 10 years (often),

• with a spread that can become significant with age,

• long term, generally in the 2 to 4 m range (variable with conditions).

Exposure

Bright partial shade recommended. Gentle sun (morning) is possible if the soil stays cool and moist; avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in containers. A sheltered position protected from dry winds is advised.

Origin & history

The name ‘Microphyllum’ literally means “small-leaved”. Several sources agree that this cultivar was introduced by the Esveld nursery (Netherlands) from a clone originating from the Botanical Garden of Coimbra (Portugal).