Acer palmatum 'Higasayama'

Higasayama Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Higasayama’ is a vigorous, upright Japanese maple with striking variegated foliage that gives strong seasonal interest. In spring, leaves emerge with green veins outlined by creamy white margins and hot pink highlights, creating a vibrant, multi-colored display. As the season progresses, the foliage tones vary — often greener in summer — and then transform to *orange, gold, and red hues in autumn, making it a beautiful specimen tree.  

Foliage & Seasonal Color:



Spring: Green leaves with creamy white and pink-edged variegation



Summer: Variegation still visible; foliage may deepen toward green



Fall: Golden orange to red autumn color  



Size & Habit:



Height: ~15–18 ft (4.5–5.5 m) at maturity



Spread: ~10–15 ft (3–4.5 m) wide



Habit: Upright, rounded tree — dense with low branching, suitable as a specimen or focal plant in garden beds or foundation plantings.



Zones & Growing Conditions:



USDA Zones: ~5–9



Light: Part shade to filtered sun promotes best variegation; tolerates full sun if soil moisture is consistent



Soil: Moist, well-drained, organically rich soil



Water: Even moisture — mulch helps conserve water and keep roots cool



Care Tips:



Provide morning sun with afternoon shade in hotter climates to preserve vibrant leaf variegation and reduce scorch.



Mulch around the roots to retain moisture and reduce temperature stress.



Light pruning in late winter can help maintain shape; remove dead or crossing branches if needed.



Landscape Uses:



Specimen tree in small to medium gardens



Accent plant near patios, entries, or focal beds



Provides year-round interest with strong spring color, attractive summer form, and brilliant fall foliage.



Short tag version:
Variegated Japanese maple with green leaves edged in cream and pink in spring, turning orange and red in fall; upright, specimen habit (USDA 5–9). 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Japanese Maple

Height

20'

Width

10-15'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Hot Pink, Medium Sea Green, White

Fall color

Red

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Wide Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

8'

10-year width

10'