Pink ballerina

Character & interest

A highly sought-after collector's item, 'Pink Ballerina' stands out for its stable and high-contrast variegation. Its foliage is deeply dissected, resembling fine lace, and adds a delicate texture to the landscape. Unlike more vigorous variegated maples, it maintains a compact, almost sculptural silhouette that evokes the lightness of a ballerina.

Colours

• Printemps : : Spectacular leaf emergence featuring bright pink mixed with red and hints of green.

• Été : : The foliage settles into a rich dark purple base, scattered with bright pink and creamy white variegation.

• Automne : : It transitions into fiery shades of bright red and orange before the leaves fall.

Habit & vigour

Weeping, cascading, and spreading habit. It is slow-growing, making it ideal for small spaces or containers without the need for intensive pruning.

Indicative size

• At 10 years: Approximately 1 to 1.5 m in height and width.

• At maturity: Can eventually reach 2 to 2.5 m over several decades.

Exposure

Bright dappled shade or gentle morning sun. It is crucial to avoid direct, hot afternoon sun to protect the delicate pink variegated portions of the leaves from scorching.

Origin & history

'Pink Ballerina' was discovered as a natural mutation (sport) of Acer palmatum dissectum 'Nigrum Select'. It was selected and named by Karan Junker at Junker's Nursery in Taunton, England. While similar to 'Hana Matoi', 'Pink Ballerina' is noted for its deeper, richer red tones and an even more compact growth habit.