Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku'

Acer palmatum is a deciduous, woody shrub native to parts of Asia and Russia. There are many garden-worthy cultivars available, which have been bred for their leaf shapes and colours.

Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku' is attractive throughout the year: in spring the leaves are a lively pinkish green, turning a rich green in summer and then canary yellow with orange highlights in autumn. It also makes a fine winter feature, with the bark on all its younger shoots and branches a conspicuous coral red. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the prestigious Award of Garden Merit.

For best results, grow Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku' in moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Protect it from the harshest winds, which may cause leaf scorch.