
Matsuyoi
‘Matsuyoi’ is a Japanese maple with a very distinctive look: its leaves create a light, “wind-blown” effect, as they may hang down, lie flat, or twist along the twigs. In spring, the foliage emerges yellow-green, turns bright green in summer, then autumn shifts to yellow-orange to deep orange. An elegant cultivar, highly decorative in a pot as well as in the garden.
Character & interest
The main appeal of ‘Matsuyoi’ is its texture: the foliage is not just a colour, it is a show. The leaves are held in an irregular way, creating a “feathery”, lively look—especially beautiful when backlit. This originality remains visible all season.
Colours
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Spring : yellow-green to soft green.
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Summer : bright green (clear and clean).
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Autumn : yellow-orange to orange (sometimes a very rich orange).
Habit & vigour
A small, bushy tree, rather broad, with slightly pendulous twigs. Slow to moderate growth.
Indicative size
Order of magnitude: around 2.5–3 m at about 10 years depending on conditions, with a potential of 3–4 m at maturity (often with a substantial spread). (Varies with soil, climate and training.)
Exposure
Bright partial shade or gentle sun. It can take more sun if the soil remains well-drained yet cool in summer. In a pot, protection from scorching sun and dry wind improves foliage quality.
| Groupe MS | 9. Matsumurae |
|---|---|
| Habit | Buissonnant / Évasé |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Moyen (2-4m) |
| Forme de feuille | Matsumurae |
| Couleur Printemps | Jaune-vert |
| Couleur Été | Green |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |


