Kuro Hime Japanese Maple

Kuro Hime Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kuro Hime')

Kuro Hime Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Kuro Hime') is a dwarf, dense selection valued for its small, rounded leaves that flush reddish in spring, mature to rich green in summer, and turn orange to red in fall. With a naturally compact, mounding habit, it delivers refined structure and four season interest for rock gardens, front borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Kuro Hime' features petite, finely lobed foliage on tight branching that forms a low dome. Color shifts across the seasons provide steady interest while the slow growth rate keeps maintenance low. Mature plants typically reach 3 to 4 ft tall and 4 to 6 ft wide with excellent leaf density.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Morning sun to partial shade; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid drought and saturated conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: 3 to 4 ft tall, 4 to 6 ft wide, slow growing mound.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Compact specimen for paths, patios, and entry beds.
• Containers: Excellent choice for large pots and troughs.
• Rock Garden: Low, mounded form tucks neatly among stones.
• Bonsai Training: Small leaves and dense branching suit styling.
• Front Border: Provides neat structure along edges and terraces.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep soak during dry spells to maintain consistent moisture.
• Pruning: Minimal; light thinning in late winter to refine shape.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 inches over the root zone to conserve moisture; keep off the trunk.
• Notes: Shelter from drying wind to reduce leaf scorch; generally pest and disease resistant in well drained soil.

Why Choose Kuro Hime Japanese Maple?

• Dwarf Habit: Space efficient mound for small gardens and containers.
• Fine Texture: Petite leaves and dense branching read elegantly.
• Seasonal Color: Spring red flush and reliable fall orange to red.
• Low Care: Slow growing, naturally tidy form.
• Design Versatility: Works in borders, rockeries, and bonsai displays.

For best vigor and color, provide morning sun with afternoon shade and maintain steady, well drained soil moisture.