Ki hachijo
‘Ki hachijō’ is a green Japanese maple with a rounded, open habit, remarkable for its flat, glossy, double-serrated leaves that give a very fine, elegant look. In autumn, it offers a succession of colours: golden yellow often tinged with pink, then light orange and red. Another key feature is its dark green bark, often with a bluish-grey cast, which develops white striations with age.
Character & interest
A highly appreciated “green” cultivar for its finely detailed leaf shape (fine serration) and its ability to deliver a rich autumn display without being a red maple in season. The striated bark adds real winter interest, especially on well-established specimens.
Colours
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Spring : bright green foliage (often a light “celery green” depending on conditions).
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Summer : deeper green, staying crisp and clean.
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Autumn : golden yellow often with pink tones, then orange and red (gradual progression).
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Winter : dark green bark with nuances, with white striations becoming more visible with age.
Habit & vigour
Rounded habit, often as wide as it is tall, forming a small tree or large shrub. Moderate to good vigour.
Indicative size
As a guide: about 4 to 6 m ultimately depending on conditions (some cultivation notes mention ~3.5–4 m at around 20 years). Spread can be similar.
Exposure
Gentle sun / bright partial shade. It is often described as comfortable in sun or filtered light, provided the soil stays cool in summer and the site is protected from drying winds.
| Groupe MS | 11. Palmatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Évasé / Arrondi |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert chartreuse |
| Couleur Été | Green |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Soleil / Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
