Komon nishiki

Character & interest

‘Komon nishiki’ is one of those cultivars whose appeal is best appreciated up close: the variegation is not a broad white margin, but rather a multitude of tiny touches that animate the leaf. The overall effect is very nuanced, with natural variations depending on the year and the plant’s vigour. With its fine foliage and balanced habit, it adapts very well to container culture.

Colours

• Spring : light green to yellow-green, often white-speckled with pinkish nuances on young leaves.

• Summer : richer green, with subtler cream/whitish spots; possible pinkish new growth.

• Autumn : orange to red (intensity varies with conditions).

Habit & vigour

Bushy to upright habit, moderate growth. The plant lends itself well to compact training, with branching that can be very interesting in a container.

Indicative size

As a guide: around 2 m at about 10 years, and roughly 2.5 to 3 m ultimately in good conditions (variable depending on climate, soil and training).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. Good light highlights the spring nuances, but protection from scorching sun and dry wind improves foliage quality (especially in a container).

Origin & history

‘Komon nishiki’ is presented as an old Japanese cultivar. A specialist source indicates it is mentioned as early as 1882 in a Japanese list (Sekihin Binran).