Beni Schichihenge Japanese Maple

Beni Schichihenge Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni schichihenge')

Beni Schichihenge Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni schichihenge') is a stunning variegated cultivar known for its elegant pink, cream, and blue-green foliage. The name translates to �Red and Changeful,� referencing the dynamic shifts in leaf color throughout the seasons. With its upright, spreading form and delicately lobed leaves, this unique variety offers season-long interest and a sophisticated flair for gardens, courtyards, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Beni Schichihenge' is easily recognized by its irregularly variegated leaves�each a unique blend of soft blue-green centers edged in creamy white and often tinged with blush-pink, especially on new growth. In fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange and coral. This cultivar maintains a compact, upright habit, typically maturing at 8 to 10 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes or as a focal point in more structured plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun; morning sun with afternoon shade helps preserve variegation and prevent leaf scorch.
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic, loamy soil with good organic content.
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but not soggy conditions.
• Humidity: Best in moderate humidity; protect from excessive wind exposure.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; hardy and reliable in a wide range of temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Vibrant variegation and upright habit create a standout feature in garden beds or near entries.
• Japanese-Inspired Gardens: Harmonizes with stones, evergreens, and water features.
• Containers: Performs beautifully in large pots on patios, porches, or balconies.
• Woodland Edges: Adds bright contrast to shady or dappled understory plantings.
• Accent in Mixed Borders: Light-toned foliage complements darker-leaved shrubs and perennials.

Low Maintenance Care

Beni Schichihenge requires minimal upkeep once established. Good siting and consistent moisture are key to maintaining vibrant foliage and healthy structure.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in hot weather or during droughts.
• Pruning: Prune sparingly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any reverted green growth.
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; monitor for leaf scorch in overly sunny or dry conditions.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in Zones 5�8; mulch around the base to protect shallow roots in colder areas.

Why Choose Beni Schichihenge Japanese Maple?

Beni Schichihenge brings color, form, and texture into harmony, making it a refined and eye-catching addition to any garden.

• Exquisite Variegation: Multi-toned leaves in cream, pink, and blue-green are showstoppers from spring to fall.
• Compact Upright Form: Ideal for small gardens and structural plantings.
• Seasonal Interest: Bright new growth and fiery fall color provide multi-season beauty.
• Great for Containers: A top choice for patios, courtyards, and entryways.
• Low Maintenance: Requires only minimal pruning and routine watering once established.

For a bold splash of color and elegant texture, Beni Schichihenge Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni Schichihenge') is an outstanding choice for refined landscapes and collectors alike.