Koto hime
‘Koto hime’ is a dwarf Japanese maple with a very upright, very dense habit, famous for its tiny leaves packed tightly along the shoots. In spring, the foliage starts pink to orange-red, then turns light green in summer. In autumn, it colours yellow mixed with orange. A collector cultivar, ideal in a pot and highly appreciated for bonsai training.
Character & interest
‘Koto hime’ stands out for two strong traits: miniature foliage and a very pronounced vertical silhouette. Branching is naturally tight.
Colours
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Spring : young leaves pink to orange-red, often with a paler centre.
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Summer : light green foliage (sometimes with slight nuances on young shoots).
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Autumn : yellow mixed with orange (intensity varies with conditions).
Habit & vigour
Upright, dwarf, very dense habit. Slow to moderate growth (typical of dwarf cultivars).
Indicative size
Order of magnitude: often around 1 to 1.5 m (depending on sources), with generally restrained growth, especially in a pot.
Exposure
Bright partial shade or gentle sun. Good light encourages density, but protection from scorching sun and dry wind improves the hold of the small leaves, especially in a pot.
Origin & history
‘Koto hime’ is widely distributed as a cultivar of Japanese origin, often written ‘Kotohime’.
| Groupe MS | 11. Palmatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Érigé compact |
| Vigueur | Lente |
| Taille 10 ans | Petit (1-2m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Rose / Orange |
| Couleur Été | Green |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
