Phoenix

Character & interest

‘Phoenix’ is a “seasonal highlight” cultivar: a very striking spring display, an elegant summer transition, then a flamboyant autumn finale. Its habit generally remains compact and well proportioned, making it easy to integrate in a collector’s garden as well as in a more understated design. Depending on conditions, young twigs can also show a reddish tint, which adds interest outside the leafy season.

Colours

• Spring : bright pink with yellow-green veins.

• Early summer : transition through yellow tones.

• Summer : glossy green (often with a fresh, clean look).

• Autumn : a mix of orange, red and yellow (intensity varies with cool nights and exposure).

Habit & vigour

Compact habit, rather broad and well branched (shrub to small tree). Moderate vigour.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• around 1.5 m at about 10 years in some catalogues,

• more often 3 to 5 m at maturity in the ground,

• some references suggest greater long-term potential (depending on climate, soil and training).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. In a hot, dry situation, foliage can mark: choose a sheltered spot (dry wind, scorching sun) and a free-draining soil that stays cool in summer.

Origin & history

The name ‘Phoenix’ is used for several maples, which often creates confusion. Here, this is Acer palmatum ‘Phoenix’, known for its pink flush veined in yellow-green and its multi-coloured autumn display.

⚠️ Not to be confused with Acer × conspicuum ‘Phoenix’ (a snakebark maple), mainly grown for its red twigs and decorative winter bark: it is a different plant.