Japanese maple 'Butterfly' |Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' - Bushy - Height 100-110cm - 35lt

Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ is an elegant and highly ornamental cultivar of the Japanese maple, admired for its delicate variegated foliage and graceful, upright habit. It makes an excellent focal point in smaller gardens, courtyard plantings or containers where its refined beauty can be appreciated up close.

This deciduous tree or shrub produces small, finely lobed leaves that are predominantly grey-green with irregular creamy-white margins. In spring, the leaf edges often emerge with a subtle pink blush, which adds a soft luminosity to early growth and gives the impression of fluttering wings — much like a butterfly. Through summer the variegation remains attractive and, in mild autumn conditions, the edges can turn rose, crimson or scarlet before the leaves fall.

Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ typically grows slowly, eventually reaching about 2.5–4 metres in height with a spread of roughly 1–1.5 metres, although many plants remain smaller in sheltered garden spots. Its slender, upright form and fine foliage texture lend it a refined architectural quality without dominating a border or patio space.

In spring this maple may also produce tiny red flowers, and later in the season small winged fruits can appear, though these are generally of minor ornamental importance compared with the foliage.

For best performance in the UK, plant Butterfly in partial or dappled shade to protect its delicate leaves from intense afternoon sun, and in moist but well-drained, fertile soil. A sheltered position will also help safeguard it from cold, drying winds that can damage tender growth and scorch leaf margins. With minimal pruning required, it remains a relatively low-maintenance choice that brings season-long interest through subtle colour transitions and refined form