Koto no ito
‘Koto no ito’ is a Japanese maple with very distinctive foliage: extremely fine lobes, almost “thread-like”, creating a light, highly graphic silhouette. In spring it starts a vivid green, stays green in summer, then autumn turns yellow-orange to orange, sometimes with red nuances depending on conditions. An elegant cultivar, superb in a container as well as in the garden.
Character & interest
‘Koto no ito’ is sought after for its unique texture: the leaves are deeply divided, with long, narrow, slightly toothed lobes that move with the slightest breeze. The effect is especially beautiful when backlit.
It is also an easy cultivar to combine: its finesse highlights fuller foliage and adds a very refined note to a Japanese-style planting.
Colours
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Spring : very luminous green (often vivid green).
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Summer : green (deeper).
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Autumn : yellow-orange then orange, sometimes orange-red to red depending on exposure and the year.
Habit & vigour
Upright to bushy habit, often fairly compact. Moderate vigour (steady growth, without excess).
Indicative size
As a guide: around 1.5 to 3 m. Variable depending on climate, soil, graft and training.
Exposure
Bright partial shade or gentle sun. The cultivar can take more sun if the soil stays cool in summer, but it is best to avoid very dry situations and drying winds, especially in a pot.
Origin & history
‘Koto no ito’ is a cultivar of Japanese origin. The name is generally explained as meaning “koto strings” (the koto being a Japanese harp), referring to the foliage’s thread-like appearance.
| Groupe MS | 8. Linearilobum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Upright |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Filiforme |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert clair |
| Couleur Été | Green |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
