Sagara nishiki
‘Sagara nishiki’ is a luminous variegated Japanese maple, with green foliage highlighted with yellow to cream—often concentrated along the margins, but it can also appear as speckling across the blade. In spring, the young leaves may show a pinkish tint along the edges. In autumn, the colour shifts towards yellow to orange tones, sometimes orange-red. Upright, compact habit; excellent in a container.
Character & interest
‘Sagara nishiki’ brings a soft light, without the “pure white” effect of some variegates. The variegation can be very expressive in some years, with a golden-dust effect visible even from a distance. A collector cultivar, decorative over a long period.
Colours
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Spring : soft green; margins may flush pink; variegation is often already visible.
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Summer : deeper green; yellow/cream variegation (often marginal, sometimes as splashes).
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Autumn : yellow to orange, sometimes orange-red depending on conditions.
Habit & vigour
Bushy habit, upright and compact. Moderate, steady vigour.
Indicative size
Order of magnitude: around 1.5 m at about 10 years in several growing situations. Ultimately, it is often given around 2 to 3 m (about 2 m spread), variable depending on soil, climate and training.
Exposure
Bright partial shade is recommended, or gentle sun. Protection from hot afternoon sun helps preserve the variegation and foliage quality, especially in a container.
| Groupe MS | 16. Variegatum |
|---|---|
| Habit | Upright |
| Vigueur | Modérée |
| Taille 10 ans | Petit (1-2m) |
| Forme de feuille | Palmate |
| Couleur Printemps | Vert bordé jaune |
| Couleur Été | Vert / Jaune |
| Couleur Automne | Jaune / Orange |
| Exposure | Mi-ombre |
| Size / Grade | C1, C1.5, C10, C2, C3, C5, C7.5, P9 |
