Beni shichihenge

Character & interest

The main strength of this cultivar is its variability: the foliage can show several colours at the same time (green, cream, pink/red), which makes it especially interesting for collectors. The variegation brings light even to restrained plantings, and the plant remains decorative without needing a large size.

Colours

• Spring : young leaves often pinkish to reddish, then the variegation appears.

• Summer : green + cream (marbling/variegated sectors), sometimes with pink touches on the most recent growth.

• Autumn : yellow to orange, sometimes deeper depending on exposure and cool late-season weather.

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, fine branching. Moderate vigour.

Indicative size

Order of magnitude: 2 to 4 m eventually (varies with soil and climate).

Exposure

Best in gentle sun or bright partial shade. Like most variegated cultivars, it performs better with a bit of shelter from scorching sun and dry wind (cleaner foliage, more stable variegation).

Origin & history

Japanese name; it is often translated with the idea of “seven transformations” (a reference to the changing colours).