Hoshi yadori

Character & interest

‘Hoshi yadori’ belongs to the “batwing maples” (Acer pictum / mono), with broad, highly graphic foliage. Its main attraction is the speckled variegation: some leaves are only “dusted”, others are strongly marked, sometimes almost entirely pale. The overall effect is a very original shimmering look, different from margin variegation. It is also a cultivar reputed to be difficult to propagate, which explains its rarity.

Colours

• Spring : budbreak often slightly reddish, then green settles in.

• Summer : dark green with yellow/cream variegation in flecks and speckles (maximum contrast).

• Autumn : often bright yellow (very luminous).

Habit & vigour

Rather upright habit, forming a small tree over time. Moderate vigor: steady growth if the soil stays cool and moist in summer. Like several variegated cultivars, it can show a tendency to revert (shoots becoming greener): removing reverted shoots helps maintain the variegated effect.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• around 2.5 to 3 m in 15 years in good conditions,

• potential around 4 m (and more in the long term) depending on soil/climate,

• width often 1.5 to 3 m at those time horizons (variable with training).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun (morning). Pale areas can scorch with harsh sun or drought: choose a sheltered position protected from drying winds, and a free-draining soil that stays cool in summer.

Origin & history

‘Hoshi yadori’ is a Japanese cultivar, linked to the Acer pictum / Acer mono group (depending on authors: Acer pictum, Acer pictum subsp. mono, Acer mono; sometimes noted Acer pictum f. ambiguum in collections). It is generally presented as an old cultivar, cited in historical horticultural lists (late 19th century). The name is often associated with variegation described as “starry” (small dots/flecks) and “powdered”, which matches the highly variable appearance of the leaves.