Ueno yama

Character & interest

‘Ueno yama’ is a “seasonal” cultivar, particularly remarkable in spring. The overall effect is very visible from a distance (luminous orange), then the plant blends easily into the garden thanks to green summer foliage and a beautiful autumn transition. Its dense branching makes it possible to obtain a well-built plant, interesting even outside the peak colour periods.

Colours

• Spring : brilliant orange; often red-edged on the young leaves.

• Summer : luminous green to green (deeper in mid-summer).

• Autumn : yellow and orange, which can shift towards orange-red depending on conditions.

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, bushy and well branched (often described as “bushy”). Moderate to good vigour.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• about 2 m at 10 years is often given by European collections,

• other references indicate 2.5 to 3.5 m at around 10 years,

• in the long term, it is frequently found around 3 to 5 m (depending on climate, soil and training).

Exposure

Bright partial shade or gentle sun. To keep the foliage clean, a sheltered position (dry winds, scorching sun) is ideal.

Origin & history

The name refers to Ueno, a district/park of Tokyo, often associated with the expression “Ueno yama” (“Ueno Hill”).