Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple

Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa')

Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa') is a classic dwarf cultivar admired for its layered branching and dense, overlapping leaves that create a sculptural, architectural form. Its tight growth habit and bright green foliage that turns fiery orange red in fall make it one of the most distinctive and sought after small maples for collectors and designers alike.

Distinctive Features

'Mikawa Yatsubusa' produces short internodes and tightly packed leaves that overlap like shingles, forming natural tiers reminiscent of bonsai styling. The tree maintains a compact, rounded shape, typically maturing to 3 to 5 ft tall and 4 to 6 ft wide, with a naturally layered structure that provides texture even in winter.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from strong afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Moist, well drained soil with slight acidity and rich organic content.
• Water: Maintain even moisture; avoid prolonged dryness or saturated soil.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity with good airflow.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Architectural form makes it a living sculpture in small gardens.
• Containers: Exceptional choice for decorative pots and bonsai displays.
• Rock Gardens: Adds structure and contrast among stones and low plantings.
• Entry Gardens: Compact size and layered form provide refinement near patios and paths.
• Japanese Gardens: Ideal for traditional and contemporary designs emphasizing texture and shape.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deeply water during dry spells to maintain consistent soil moisture.
• Pruning: Minimal; light thinning in late winter to highlight natural layering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature; keep off the trunk.
• Notes: Protect from drying winds and full afternoon sun; generally pest and disease resistant when sited correctly.

Why Choose Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple?

• Architectural Form: Layered, sculptural habit provides unmatched visual texture.
• Compact Growth: Perfect for containers and small landscapes.
• Brilliant Fall Color: Fiery orange red tones in autumn.
• Collector Favorite: Highly prized among Japanese maple enthusiasts.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally neat habit requires little pruning.

Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple brings elegance, structure, and artistry to any garden, serving as a living focal point of refined design and seasonal beauty.