Acer Palmatum 'Calico'

Calico Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Calico’ is a striking variegated Japanese maple admired for its mottled pink, cream, and green foliage that creates a soft, painterly effect. Leaves emerge in spring with rose-pink and creamy white splashes over light green, gradually settling to green with pale variegation in summer, then finishing with warm tones of pink, orange, and soft red in fall.

The foliage is palmate with moderately divided lobes, offering a refined texture without being overly delicate. ‘Calico’ develops an upright to rounded habit with graceful branching and moderate growth, making it an excellent close-up specimen.

Best grown in partial shade to protect the light-colored leaves from scorch, it prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and shelter from hot afternoon sun and drying winds. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8.

Mature size:



Width: 10–15 ft



Height: 12–18 ft



Ideal for specimen planting, woodland gardens, courtyards, and Asian-inspired landscapes, Acer palmatum ‘Calico’ is valued for its soft variegation, elegant form, and refined seasonal color.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

12-18'

Width

10-15''

Hardiness zones

6–9

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red, Yellow

Soil

Clay

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

No