Acer Palmatum 'Sister Ghost'

Japanese MapleE 'Sister Ghost'

Acer palmatum ‘Sister Ghost’ is a striking ghost-type Japanese maple admired for its silvery-white to pale green foliage accented by dark green veining. Spring leaves emerge nearly white with translucent margins, giving the tree a luminous, ethereal appearance that stands out even in shade.

As the season progresses, foliage matures to soft green with pronounced darker veins, retaining its ghostly pattern through summer when protected from strong sun. In fall, ‘Sister Ghost’ turns soft yellow to light orange, providing gentle autumn color. Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form and dramatic venation.

The habit is upright and rounded, forming a graceful small tree. ‘Sister Ghost’ performs best in partial to full shade, where leaf color remains brightest and scorch is avoided, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.

Size



Width: 8–12 ft



Height: 10–15 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 5–8



Best Uses


Specimen tree for ghostly foliage effect



Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens



Shade gardens and protected sites



Accent near patios or walkways



Collector tree for rare foliage coloration

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

10-15'

Width

8-12'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Dark Spring Green, Yellow Green

Fall color

Gold, Salmon

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Shape

Broad Upright

Drought tolerant

No