Japanese Maple Acer ‘Butterfly’ 40/60cm (2L)

The Japanese Maple ‘Butterfly’ is a truly enchanting small deciduous tree that brings year-round interest to gardens with its delicate, variegated foliage. This stunning cultivar of Acer palmatum features elegant palmate leaves edged with creamy-white margins that give the appearance of butterflies dancing in the breeze. The foliage emerges in spring with soft pink tones before maturing to a beautiful grey-green centre with irregular cream and pale pink variegation. As autumn arrives, the leaves transform into warm shades of crimson and pink, creating a spectacular seasonal display.

This particular specimen is supplied at 40-60cm in a 2-litre pot, making it perfect for establishing in borders, woodland gardens, or containers on patios and courtyards. The compact, upright growth habit of ‘Butterfly’ makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens where space is at a premium. The variegated foliage provides a striking focal point when planted against darker evergreen shrubs or used to brighten shaded corners.

Japanese Maples thrive in the British climate when given the right conditions. Plant ‘Butterfly’ in a sheltered position protected from harsh winds and late spring frosts, which can damage the delicate new growth. This cultivar performs best in partial shade, as strong direct sunlight can scorch the variegated leaves, particularly during hot summer afternoons. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.

Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ prefers moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Improve heavy clay soils with organic matter and grit to enhance drainage, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root problems. In chalky or alkaline soils, consider growing in containers filled with ericaceous compost to maintain the slightly acidic conditions these trees prefer.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, and continue watering during dry spells, particularly for container-grown specimens. Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring, and mulch around the base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch away from the trunk itself.

Pruning is generally minimal. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant. Avoid pruning in spring when the sap is rising, as this can cause excessive bleeding. Watch for any shoots with plain green foliage and remove these promptly, as they are more vigorous and will eventually dominate the variegated growth.

Container cultivation is particularly successful with ‘Butterfly’. Use a large pot with drainage holes, fill with ericaceous compost, and position in a sheltered spot. Container-grown specimens require more frequent watering and feeding than those planted in the ground.

Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.