Acer Koto-no-Ito
Acer palmatum Koto-no-Ito, commonly known as the Harp String Japanese Maple, is a deciduous tree with slender, linear-lobed leaves that hang like the strings of a harp, hence its common name. The leaves unfurl as light green in spring, turn to a vibrant green in summer and transition to captivating shades of gold and orange in the autumn. Koto-no-Ito typically reaches a height and width of approximately 2 to 3 metres, forming a compact, upright but slightly cascading shape. It thrives best in part shade, sheltered from harsh winds, and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. This slow-growing Acer is often used as a focal point in the garden for its fine-textured, year-round interest, making it an excellent choice for small gardens, containers or as an elegant addition to a Japanese-inspired garden.
Trimming: Prune in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant, removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning to preserve the natural shape, particularly for ornamental varieties like Japanese maples.
Fertilising: Apply a slow-release fertiliser formulated for trees or a balanced fertiliser in early spring. Avoid over-fertilising, which can cause leggy growth.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the establishment phase and during dry spells, especially for shallow-rooted varieties like Japanese maples. Use mulch to retain moisture.
Pest Control: Monitor for aphids, scale insects, and caterpillars. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Disease Management: Watch for signs of verticillium wilt (wilting and yellowing leaves) and leaf spot diseases. Remove affected branches and ensure good drainage. Dispose of infected material to prevent the spread of disease.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
