Acer North Wind 80/100cm (3L)

North Wind® Maple ‘North Wind’ – Acer x pseudosieboldianum stands as the flagship variety of the celebrated Jack Frost® maple collection, bringing exceptional cold hardiness and year-round ornamental interest to British gardens. This remarkable hybrid maple has proven its resilience through rigorous Midwest field testing, emerging unscathed from temperatures plummeting to -34°C, way below our UK temperatures, making it an outstanding choice for gardeners seeking a reliable yet spectacular specimen tree.

The seasonal performance of North Wind® maple is nothing short of theatrical. In spring, the elegant palmate leaves emerge in striking shades of red, creating an eye-catching display that signals the start of the growing season. As the months progress, the foliage transitions to a fresh, vibrant green by midsummer, providing a lush backdrop for the tree’s next act. During the summer months, showy pink samaras develop, their delicate winged seeds creating a beautiful contrast against the green canopy. This combination of colour and texture adds depth and interest to the garden during the warmer months.

Autumn brings the most spectacular transformation. When other trees have already shed their leaves and the garden begins to look bare, North Wind® maple extends the seasonal show with dramatic tones of orange and scarlet. This late-season performance makes it invaluable for maintaining colour and interest well into autumn, often outlasting many traditional choices for fall foliage. The intensity of the autumn display rivals that of traditional Japanese maples whilst offering superior hardiness.

Growing North Wind® Maple in British Gardens

This adaptable maple thrives in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Choose a position in full sun to partial shade, though the most vibrant spring and autumn colours develop with good light levels. The tree tolerates a range of soil types but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

Water young specimens regularly during their first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system. Once established, North Wind® maple shows good drought tolerance, though it appreciates consistent moisture during prolonged dry spells. Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk, to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Feed annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser to support healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Pruning is minimal and best undertaken during late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain an attractive framework. This maple naturally develops an elegant branching structure that requires little intervention.

The compact growth habit makes North Wind® maple suitable for medium-sized gardens, mixed borders, and even large containers during its early years. Its exceptional hardiness means it thrives throughout British gardens, including exposed positions and colder regions where many ornamental maples struggle. The tree is relatively pest and disease-free, requiring minimal maintenance once established.

Ultimate height
4–8 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 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.