Acer palmatum 'Nishiki Gawa'

Pine Bark Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Nishiki Gawa’, commonly known as Pine Bark Maple, is a distinctive Japanese maple prized for its unique, corky, fissured bark that resembles pine bark as the tree matures. This unusual bark texture provides excellent winter interest, setting it apart from most Japanese maples.

Foliage emerges bright green in spring, remaining fresh green through summer. In fall, leaves turn golden yellow to orange, adding seasonal color that complements the dramatic bark. Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form, creating a balanced, refined canopy.

The growth habit is upright and rounded, developing into a small ornamental tree with strong structure. ‘Nishiki Gawa’ performs best in partial shade and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 12–15 ft



Height: 15–20 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree with winter interest



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Four-season focal point



Accent tree in mixed borders



Collector tree for bark texture and form

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

15-20'

Width

12-15'

Hardiness zones

6–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Exfoliating, Rough, Scaly

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

8'

10-year width

10'