Koshibori nishiki
‘Koshibori nishiki’ is a Japanese maple appreciated for its very fine variegation, like a dusting of yellow to cream speckles laid over small green leaves. The effect is often stronger on young growth, then becomes more discreet in summer (and some leaves may remain entirely green). In autumn, it turns yellow-orange. A delicate cultivar, superb in a container and near a path so you can enjoy it up close.
Character & interest
Here, everything is in the nuance: the variegation is not in large patches, but in very fine speckling, sometimes so dense that it forms small lighter areas. This is an “observation” cultivar, which is best placed where you can look at the foliage at eye level.
Colours
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Spring : light green to green, often with a yellow impression on young growth, with speckling already visible.
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Summer : green with yellow/cream dots (variegation sometimes more discreet; fully green leaves are possible).
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Autumn : yellow-orange (sometimes a deeper orange depending on conditions).
Habit & vigour
Rather upright habit, becoming a dense shrub/small tree. Moderate vigour.
Indicative size
Order of magnitude: around 2 to 3 m (often quoted around 2.5 m at 10 years), with a generally more contained spread, variable depending on conditions and training (in the ground vs in a container).
Exposure
Bright partial shade or gentle sun. The variegation shows better with light, but protection from scorching sun (especially in the afternoon) and dry wind helps keep the foliage clean, particularly in a container.
| Groupe MS | 16. Variegatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Upright |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert clair |
| Couleur Été | Vert tacheté blanc |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
