Hogyoku

Character & interest

‘Hogyoku’ is often recommended as an elegant “background green” through the season, which becomes a true centrepiece in autumn. The foliage is generally described as broad and fairly leathery, with good substance and good hold. It is also frequently presented as more sun-tolerant than many Japanese maples, provided drought is avoided.

Colours

• Spring : light green to lime-green foliage, sometimes with a reddish nuance at budbreak depending on conditions.

• Summer : rich green (often stable).

• Autumn : golden yellow then vivid orange (the cultivar’s signature), sometimes with orange-red nuances.

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, often vase-shaped or slightly rounded with age. Good vigour (steady, regular growth).

Indicative size

Order of magnitude: about 4 to 6 m ultimately (sometimes more depending on conditions), with a spread that can reach 3 to 5 m. With more restrained cultivation (container / small garden), it naturally stays more compact.

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade. ‘Hogyoku’ is often described as quite sun-tolerant, especially if the soil stays consistently moist (without being waterlogged) and the position is sheltered from drying winds.

Origin & history

‘Hogyoku’ is generally presented as an old Japanese cultivar. The name is commonly explained as meaning “jewel” in Japanese.