Acer Palmatum 'First Ghost'

JAPANESE MAPLE 'FIRST GHOST'

Acer palmatum ‘First Ghost’ is a variegated Japanese maple from the “Ghost Series” of reticulated cultivars developed by Talon Buchholz. It’s prized for its ghostly, variegated foliage that creates a striking focal point in the garden.

Foliage & Color:



Spring: Leaves emerge creamy white to pale yellow with prominent dark green veins and often red-purple edging, giving a “ghostly” appearance.



Summer: Foliage shifts to green with retained variegation and visible veining.



Fall: Displays bright orange to golden hues with some red tones.



Form & Habit:



Habit: Semi-pendulous, somewhat upright when young, becoming as wide as tall with age in a graceful canopy.



Reticulated leaf form: Distinct network of veins and irregular variegation characteristic of the Ghost series.




📏 Size & Growth


Mature Size: Often around 6–8 ft tall × 6–8 ft wide (some sources list ~5–7 ft).



Growth Rate: Moderate to slow.




☀️ Growing Conditions


USDA Zones: Generally 5–9.



Light: Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to preserve leaf variegation and avoid scorch.



Soil: Moist, well-drained, organic soil.



Water: Regular watering during establishment and dry spells helps keep variegation crisp and foliage healthy.




✂️ Care Tips


Shade in summer: Protect from hot afternoon sun to keep leaf variegation vibrant longer.



Mulch: Helps retain moisture and protect roots.



Pruning: Minimal; trim only dead wood or light shaping in late winter.




🌿 Landscape Uses


Specimen plant: Focal point in shade gardens or mixed borders.



Containers: Great choice for patio and terrace plantings.



Small gardens: Excellent where a unique color accent is desired.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

6-8'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green, Hot Pink, White

Fall color

Amaranth, Orange Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No