Yugure

Character & interest

‘Yugure’ is a very interesting cultivar if you are looking for a maple that stays nuanced in season (more bronze/green) but becomes spectacular in autumn. Its upright silhouette and its ability to form a true small tree make it an excellent accent subject, both on its own and combined with conifers, dark foliage, or golden tones.

Colours

• Spring : crimson / rust to brown bronze, with quick transitions towards greener tones.

• Summer : bronze-green to “bottle” green (often with depth of colour).

• Autumn : golden yellow to yellow-orange, sometimes with more “flame” nuances depending on conditions (cool soil, cool nights, good light).

Habit & vigour

Upright habit, then a rounded crown with age. Moderate to good vigour: it establishes well in the ground and can also be grown in a container (a large pot is recommended) provided watering is monitored.

Indicative size

Observed orders of magnitude depending on sources and training:

• often quoted around 3 m at about 10 years,

• some observations and catalogues suggest an adult potential that can reach 5–6 m (with a good spread), depending on climate and training.

Exposure

Gentle sun / bright partial shade. Good light enhances the golden/orange autumn colour, while avoiding scorching and windy situations that can mark the foliage.

Origin & history

The name ‘Yugure’ is generally interpreted as an evocation of twilight / evening glow, consistent with its warm autumn tones. Several sources present it as an old cultivar, long mentioned in horticultural literature.