Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'

The Japanese name 'Ukigumo' translates as 'Floating Cloud' which aptly describes the beautiful variegated leaves and also in Japan it embodies a philosophical point of view. This cultivar has deeply cut, five lobed leaves that are mottled and edged with lovely creamy-white markings. The leaves can on occasion appear as pure white although these usually develop green markings in time.

Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' always looks lovely when planted against a dark background as the white markings are more clearly visible.

• Position: Light dappled or partial shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy. Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' will grow best when planted in an area sheltered from strong winds.
• Rate of Growth: Slow.
• Habit: Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' eventually grows to be a medium sized to large, branching shrub.
  • Height: 3 m (10 ft) / [up to 2 m (6 ft) after 10 years]
  • Spread: 3 m (10 ft) / [up to 2 m (6 ft) after 10 years]