Sister Ghost Japanese Maple

Sister Ghost Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sister Ghost')

Sister Ghost Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sister Ghost') is a hauntingly beautiful small tree admired for its unusual variegated foliage. As part of the coveted 'Ghost' series of maples, 'Sister Ghost' is prized for its pale, marbled leaves that shift in tone throughout the seasons. This slow-growing cultivar makes a refined statement in shaded garden spaces, offering subtle texture and year-round character in a compact form.

Distinctive Features

'Sister Ghost' unfurls in spring with creamy white to pale green leaves heavily marked with irregular green veining. As summer progresses, the foliage may develop faint pink tones along the leaf edges or midrib, especially when grown with some morning sun. In autumn, the leaves take on shades of soft yellow and orange. Its delicate, deeply lobed leaves and small stature - maturing at 6 to 10 feet tall and wide - make it well-suited to display gardens, containers, or woodland borders.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade preferred; some morning sun enhances variegation, but protection from hot afternoon sun prevents leaf scorch.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture; slightly acidic pH is ideal.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells and summer heat.
• Humidity: Performs well in average garden humidity with good airflow.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-8; cold hardy with protection from drying winter winds.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Unique variegation makes it a stunning specimen in shaded beds or borders.
• Shade Gardens: Brightens up lower-light areas with soft, luminous foliage.
• Containers: Excellent for patios or courtyard displays where its intricate leaves can be admired up close.
• Japanese-Style Gardens: Adds refined texture and interest to tranquil settings.
• Woodland Edges: Pairs well with ferns, hostas, and other woodland companions.

Low Maintenance Care

Sister Ghost benefits from thoughtful placement and steady care. Its slow growth and natural form require little intervention beyond routine upkeep.

• Watering: Maintain steady soil moisture; avoid extremes of drought or waterlogging.
• Pruning: Prune sparingly in winter to shape and remove dead wood; excessive pruning may spoil the natural habit.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for woody ornamentals.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally trouble-free; good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.
• Winter Care: Mulch the root zone in late fall to buffer against temperature swings.

Why Choose Sister Ghost Japanese Maple?

Sister Ghost is a standout among variegated Japanese maples, offering soft color shifts and intricate leaf patterns that change with the seasons. It's a rare, elegant choice for collectors and landscape designers alike.

• Striking Variegated Foliage: Creamy-white leaves with dramatic green veining and seasonal pink tones.
• Compact Growth: Ideal for small gardens and container growing.
• Refined Aesthetic: Adds delicate texture and elegance to shady spaces.
• Unique Seasonal Color: Spring and summer marbling gives way to glowing fall hues.
• Low Maintenance: Grows slowly with minimal shaping required.

For rare beauty and softly luminous foliage, Sister Ghost (Acer palmatum 'Sister Ghost') is an exceptional choice for shaded gardens and specialty plantings.