Butterfly Japanese Maple

Butterfly Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Butterfly')

Butterfly Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Butterfly') is a refined variegated selection with small green leaves irregularly edged and splashed in creamy white, often blushed pink in spring, maturing to soft green and cream before warming to rose and red tones in fall; its upright, vase shaped habit and delicate texture add multiseason interest to entries, borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Butterfly' showcases stable cream variegation that reads crisp in dappled light, with occasional all green reversions that can be removed to preserve pattern; the layered framework typically matures as a compact small tree with reliable fall color.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from hot afternoon sun to preserve variegation.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Maintain even moisture; avoid drought and waterlogged soil.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 8 to 15 ft tall, 6 to 10 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: High contrast foliage creates instant visual impact.
• Entry Gardens: Brightens paths and patios with close up interest.
• Containers: Performs well in large, sheltered planters.
• Mixed Borders: Contrasts with dark conifers and green shrubs.
• Shade Gardens: Lights up filtered light beneath taller trees.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to keep soil consistently moist.
• Pruning: Light structural pruning in late winter; promptly remove all green reversions.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture and regulate temperature; keep mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide airflow and afternoon shade in hot sites to limit leaf scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in well drained soil.

Why Choose Butterfly Japanese Maple?

• Striking Variegation: Cream edged leaves with pink spring blush.
• Manageable Size: Ideal scale for residential landscapes.
• Design Contrast: Elevates green plantings and evergreen backdrops.
• Seasonal Appeal: Spring brightness and warm fall tones.
• Refined Texture: Small leaves and layered branching read elegant.

For the clearest variegation and best vigor, site in morning sun with afternoon shade and maintain steady, well drained soil moisture.