Botanical profile

Acer palmatum 'Tsukushi gata'

Latin name
Acer palmatum 'Tsukushi-Gata'
Common name
Japanese Maple 'Tsukushi-Gata'
Type
TREE
Family
Sapindaceae

Acer palmatum ‘Tsukushi-Gata’, also known as Japanese maple 'Tsukushi-Gata', is an elegant and contrasting variety, cultivated for its purple foliage with distinctly marked light green veins, which gives it a unique graphic presence. In spring, its leaves emerge deep red, adorned with almost chartreuse veins, creating a sophisticated two-tone effect. In summer, the foliage darkens slightly while maintaining its contrast, then takes on scarlet red tones in autumn. Its upright and light habit, as well as its airy shape, make it ideal for isolated plantings, refined gardens, or Japanese-themed settings. It prefers fresh, well-drained soil and dappled light to preserve the intensity and subtlety of its colors. ‘Tsukushi-Gata’ is a rare and refined maple, perfect for adding depth, contrast, and movement to a temperate landscape.

Plant information
Plant
identification
Common nameJapanese Maple 'Tsukushi-Gata'
Latin nameAcer palmatum 'Tsukushi-Gata'
FamilySapindaceae
TypeTREE
Plant
description

Acer palmatum ‘Tsukushi-Gata’, also known as Japanese maple 'Tsukushi-Gata', is an elegant and contrasting variety, cultivated for its purple foliage with distinctly marked light green veins, which gives it a unique graphic presence. In spring, its leaves emerge deep red, adorned with almost chartreuse veins, creating a sophisticated two-tone effect. In summer, the foliage darkens slightly while maintaining its contrast, then takes on scarlet red tones in autumn. Its upright and light habit, as well as its airy shape, make it ideal for isolated plantings, refined gardens, or Japanese-themed settings. It prefers fresh, well-drained soil and dappled light to preserve the intensity and subtlety of its colors. ‘Tsukushi-Gata’ is a rare and refined maple, perfect for adding depth, contrast, and movement to a temperate landscape.

Soil
and care
ExposureSubdued sun to partial shade
Soil
Slightly acidic, rich and well-drained
Watering
Moderate, cool, well-drained soil
Fertilization
Gentle fertilizer in spring, low in nitrogen
Appearance,
season
and garden
Bloom period
Spring
Flower colorPurplish Red (spring)
Foliage colorPurple veined green → scarlet red (autumn)
Habit / shape
Erect open
Fruiting
Erect open
Wildlife appealTRUE
Size
and facts
Height11.5 ft (3.5 m)
Spread8.2 ft (2.5 m)
Growth rateModerate
Hardiness zoneZone 5
Minimum temperature-20.2 °F
Foliage typeObsolete
PollinatorsSupports pollinators
PetsPet friendly
Plant availability varies with new arrivals, the seasons, nursery production and supplier inventory. Trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and indoor plants may be offered for a limited time depending on their natural cycle and available stock. These pages are designed to guide and inspire your choices for the garden, landscaping, containers and indoor growing.
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators