Uzen Nishiki Japanese Maple

Uzen nishiki Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Uzen nishiki')

Uzen nishiki Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Uzen nishiki') is a standout variegated selection with leaves splashed in pink and cream over green in spring, shifting to soft green and white in summer and warming to orange and red in fall; its upright, layered habit and fine branching create luminous color and pattern in morning sun and dappled shade.

Distinctive Features

Showy spring blush and cream marbling provide rare contrast; refined texture and a balanced canopy deliver four season elegance and dependable autumn color.

Growing Conditions

Plant in evenly moist, well drained soil; morning sun enhances variegation while afternoon protection preserves leaf edges.

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; avoid harsh afternoon sun in warm climates.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist during active growth and heat.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 6 to 10 ft tall and 5 to 8 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

Its luminous variegation and tidy scale suit high visibility placements and small gardens.

• Focal Point: Pink and cream variegation draws the eye in filtered light.
• Courtyard Specimen: Close up placement showcases leaf pattern and color.
• Entry Accent: Moderate size and layered form frame paths and foundations.
• Mixed Border Contrast: Partners well with dark evergreens and gold foliage.
• Container Feature: Performs well in large decorative pots on patios.

Low Maintenance Care

Light pruning and consistent moisture keep foliage clean and variegation strong.

• Watering: Deeply water weekly in dry periods to maintain even moisture.
• Pruning: Thin lightly in late winter to preserve layers; remove any solid green reversions.
• Fertilizing: Feed modestly in spring with a balanced slow release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer over roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide wind shelter and avoid reflected heat to prevent leaf scorch.

Why Choose Uzen nishiki Japanese Maple?

Choose this cultivar for rare variegation, compact stature, and refined branching that elevate shaded plantings.

• Distinctive Variegation: Pink and cream splashes create high contrast foliage.
• Shade Friendly: Best color in morning sun and bright, filtered light.
• Refined Texture: Small leaves and layered canopy offer elegance.
• Manageable Size: Fits patios, entries, and compact borders.
• Straightforward Care: Minimal pruning and predictable performance.

Site where morning light can backlight the foliage and highlight the variegated pattern.