Nishiki Gawa Pinebark Japanese Maple

Nishiki Gawa Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Nishiki Gawa')

Nishiki Gawa Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Nishiki Gawa') is a rare cork bark selection admired for its deeply fissured, rough textured bark that develops even on young stems, paired with classic palmate leaves that shift from soft green in spring to rich green in summer and bright orange to red in fall; its upright, well branched habit provides four season structure and character in entry gardens, borders, and collector plantings.

Distinctive Features

Thick, corky bark adds tactile, year round interest uncommon in Japanese maples; medium sized leaves provide dependable seasonal color on a balanced framework that typically matures 12 to 15 ft tall and 8 to 12 ft wide.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade recommended in hot zones.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate and consistent; avoid prolonged drought or soggy conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Humidity: Handles average humidity with good airflow.
• Mature Size: 12 to 15 ft tall, 8 to 12 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bark texture and fall color deliver multi season impact.
• Collector Gardens: Sought after cork bark trait adds rarity and depth.
• Winter Interest: Bark structure shines after leaf drop.
• Woodland Borders: Blends with shade perennials and evergreens.
• Foundation Plantings: Upright habit suits tight beds and entries.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain steady soil moisture; deep soak during heat or drought.
• Pruning: Light structural pruning in late winter to remove dead or crossed wood; avoid heavy midsummer cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring for even growth.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to regulate temperature and conserve moisture; keep off the trunk.
• Notes: Generally resistant to common maple pests and diseases when planted in well drained soil with airflow.

Why Choose Nishiki Gawa Japanese Maple?

• Unique Bark Texture: Deeply fissured corky bark adds rare, year round interest.
• Classic Maple Form: Familiar foliage with reliable seasonal color.
• Architectural Presence: Upright, well branched habit provides structure.
• Cold Hardy: Dependable performance across temperate climates.
• Low Maintenance: Easy care tree that gains character with age.

For standout winter texture and refined seasonal color, choose Nishiki Gawa where its corky bark can be appreciated up close.