Maple
Kuro Hime
Acer palmatum
An exceptional and highly dynamic dwarf Japanese Maple. Reaching an ultra-compact, dense upright shape, 'Kuro hime' features a spectacular color progression: leaves emerge in early spring clad in brilliant, glowing jewel-toned pinkish-red. As summer approaches, the mature canopy shifts to a cool, serene blue-green. Mid-summer heat then triggers a striking secondary flush of bright pink-red new growth across the branch tips, creating a multi-layered, flower-like two-toned canopy before transforming into rich, fiery red tones for autumn.
Growing Specifications
- Height
- 4-5 feet (at 10-15 years)
- Spread
- 4-5 feet
- Watering
- Moderate; requires regular deep watering but highly intolerant of waterlogged feet
- Light
- Morning sun, afternoon shade
- Heat Tolerance
- Good to Excellent for a compact dwarf
- Growth Rate
- Slow (Vigorous as a juvenile to quickly establish shape, then slows dramatically)
- Soil Requirement
- Loose, well-draining, organically rich, slightly acidic
North Texas Micro-climate Notes
Expert Curated Selection. Because of its dense, compact branch structure and unique summer re-flush, it is highly suited for container culture in North Texas. Protect it completely from the baking southwest 3 PM sun to ensure the delicate secondary pink flush doesn't scorch or bleach out. Heavy root mulching is vital to keep soil temperatures down.
History & Lineage
- INTRODUCED BY
- Kyoto Horticultural Exporters / Introduced to U.S. in 2008
- HISTORY
- Originated as a selected seedling variation in Kyoto, Japan. It was officially imported into the United States in 2008. It quickly ascended within collector circles globally due to its unique bi-color summer display and far sturdier, more vigorous juvenile structural growth than older, fussy dwarf cultivars.
Care Instructions
Plant in an exceptionally porous soil mix heavily amended with expanded shale or coarse perlite to facilitate rapid water transition. Water deeply and consistently during summer high-heat stretches. Prune minimal interior twigging to maintain its natural dense globe architecture.
Landscape Usage
Perfect as a centerpiece container plant for outdoor living areas, tucked into compact rock gardens, or showcased as an eye-level focal point within a crisp Japandi architecture project.
Fun Fact
Translating to 'Black-Red Princess' or 'Dark Princess' in Japanese, this variety's compact internodes and quick-branching habit make it an absolute premier candidate for high-end container culture and artisan bonsai work.
Awards
Highly coveted across international maple societies as a premier modern dwarf introduction
