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Acer palmatum 'Butterfly'
Confirmed format: 3 Litre Pot
Plant Highlights: Elegant cream-edged variegated foliage • Delicate pink-flushed spring growth • Vibrant yellow, orange and crimson autumn colour • Compact, upright habit ideal for smaller gardens • Suitable for containers and specimen planting
Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' is a refined Japanese maple prized for its beautifully variegated foliage. The small, deeply lobed leaves emerge with soft pink tones in spring before maturing to grey-green with creamy white margins. As autumn approaches, the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and crimson, creating a striking seasonal display. With its naturally compact, upright habit, 'Butterfly' is an excellent choice for smaller gardens, woodland settings and courtyard planting. The light-coloured foliage brings brightness to shaded areas and contrasts beautifully with darker shrubs and evergreens.
'Butterfly' offers interest through every season, from its delicately variegated spring and summer foliage to its vivid autumn display. Its compact size and elegant habit make it an excellent focal point where its finely detailed leaves can be appreciated up close.
| Botanical Name | Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Japanese Maple 'Butterfly' |
| Plant Type | Deciduous ornamental tree |
| Foliage | Grey-green leaves with creamy white margins and pink-flushed spring growth |
| Autumn Colour | Yellow, orange and crimson tones |
| Position | Partial shade or full sun |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil |
| Growth Habit | Compact, upright small tree or large shrub |
| Best Uses | Specimen planting, Japanese gardens, woodland gardens, courtyard gardens and large containers |
| Mature Height | Approximately 2.5 m to 3 m |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 1.5 m to 2 m |
| Hardiness | RHS H6 (−20°C to −15°C). Requires shelter from cold, drying winds and moist, well-drained soil. |
| Positioning | Plant in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position protected from strong winds. In Ireland, partial shade is particularly beneficial to help protect variegated foliage from scorch during hot, sunny spells. |
|---|---|
| Watering | Water regularly while establishing and during prolonged dry periods, especially if grown in a container. |
| Mulching | Apply a mulch in spring to help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool, taking care not to pile mulch against the trunk. |
| Pruning | Japanese maples require minimal pruning. Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches during the dormant season if required, allowing the plant to maintain its naturally graceful form. Avoid heavy pruning. |
| Product Title | Acer palm. 'Butterfly' / Struik / 3L |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' |
| Supplied Format | 3 Litre Pot |
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