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Safe Arrival Guarantee
We guarantee your plants will arrive healthy and thriving
Origin
Proudly Grown In Canada
Plants are propagated in Canada at our very own nursery here on Vancouver Island, BC.
We Ship Anywhere In Canada
We Ship Anywhere In Canada
Your plants will be safely and securely delivered by UPS

Cultivar

'Bihou'

A striking recent Japanese introduction, 'Bihou' features vivid yellow bark that contrasts dramatically with rich green spring foliage. Autumn brings bright yellows to oranges, while winter reveals its signature bright yellow branching in full glory. Thrives with consistent watering, morning sun, and afternoon shade in warmer zones; full sun further north. Reaches 10–12 feet in fifteen years. An essential statement piece for collectors.

Japanese Maples

Japanese maples are among the most versatile and admired ornamental trees, prized for their elegant form, refined foliage, and year-round visual interest. Suitable for both garden planting and bonsai cultivation, these trees adapt beautifully to a wide range of landscapes and growing styles.

Growth Forms & Habits

Japanese maples are available in a wide variety of natural forms, including:

  • Upright and spreading forms ideal for specimen planting
  • Weeping and cascading varieties perfect for containers, slopes, and bonsai
  • Compact and dwarf cultivars well-suited to small gardens, patios, and detailed bonsai work

Their graceful branching structure provides beauty even in winter once leaves have fallen.

Foliage & Bark Characteristics

Cultivars display a remarkable range of ornamental traits, including:

  • Deep red, burgundy, and purple foliage, often changing through the seasons
  • Fresh green or chartreuse leaves with brilliant fall color
  • Variegated patterns with cream, pink, or white accents
  • Coral bark selections with striking winter stem color
  • Rough or fissured bark types prized for texture and age character

Leaf shapes range from finely dissected laceleaf forms to broader, classic palmate leaves.

Ideal for Bonsai & Garden Use

Japanese maples are highly valued for bonsai due to their fine branching, ability to reduce leaf size, and responsiveness to pruning and training. At the same time, they perform exceptionally well as garden trees—whether planted in the ground, grown in containers, or used as focal points in Japanese-inspired landscapes.

Why Choose Japanese Maples?

  • Four-season interest: Spring foliage, summer canopy, brilliant fall color, and elegant winter structure
  • Versatile sizing: Most varieties mature between 10–15 feet, perfect for small gardens and urban spaces
  • Low maintenance: Once established, Japanese maples are hardy and require minimal care
  • Container-friendly: Ideal for patios, balconies, or featured garden spots
  • Excellent for bonsai: Fine branching, leaf reduction, and responsive to training
Typical Japanese Maple growth form

Typical Japanese Maple growth form

Plant Sizes

We offer Japanese maples in several size categories. Measurements are approximate and provided as a general guideline.

Size Category Height Trunk Diameter Description
4" Liners 6–12 inches ¼–½ inch Young plants ideal for training, bonsai, or growing on
Standard 1-Gallon 6–24 inches ¾–1½ inches Well-established plants suitable for landscape or container growing
1-Gallon Extra Large (XL) 12–48 inches ¾–2 inches Grown for a longer period, resulting in better branching, thicker trunks, and a more mature appearance

Please note: Plant size and form will vary depending on the cultivar purchased. Dwarf varieties will naturally be smaller and more compact than standard varieties, even within the same pot size.

Grown in Canada, for Canada. All our Japanese maples are cultivated and shipped from our Canadian nursery with care, ensuring they arrive healthy and ready to thrive in your climate.

 

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Acer palmatum
Hardiness Zones
5-8
Mature Height
10-12 ft. tall
Mature Width
8-10 ft. wide
Sun Needs
Morning sun with afternoon shade (zones 7-8); full sun acceptable in cooler zones (5-6)
Water Needs
Moderate to high - consistent moisture essential for vibrant bark color
Growth Rate
Moderate (8-12 inches per year)
Defining Characteristic
Vivid yellow bark with dramatic seasonal foliage transitions
Spectacular Yellow Bark

Spectacular Yellow Bark

'Bihou' is celebrated for its vivid yellow bark that creates a dramatic focal point year-round. The bright golden branches are most striking in winter against snow or evergreens, providing exceptional four-season interest that sets this cultivar apart from traditional Japanese maples.
Dynamic Seasonal Color

Dynamic Seasonal Color

Rich green spring foliage provides stunning contrast against the yellow bark, transforming to brilliant yellows and oranges in autumn. Each season offers a distinct color palette, making 'Bihou' a continuously evolving landscape feature throughout the year.
Collector's Statement Piece

Collector's Statement Piece

A recent Japanese introduction highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Perfect as a specimen plant where its unique yellow bark can be showcased, ideal for small gardens, patios, or as an understory accent in woodland settings. An essential addition to any serious Japanese maple collection.

Sun Needs

Morning sun with afternoon shade (zones 7-8); full sun acceptable in cooler zones (5-6)

Soil

Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Amend heavy clay with organic matter to improve drainage. Consistent moisture and good drainage are essential for maintaining the vibrant yellow bark coloration and preventing root stress.

Temperature

Hardy in zones 5-8. Protect from harsh winter winds to preserve the striking yellow bark. Young trees benefit from afternoon shade in hot climates (zones 7-8); can tolerate full sun in cooler northern zones (5-6) where the yellow bark color intensifies.

Water and Mulching

Water deeply and consistently, especially in the first 2–3 years. 'Bihou' thrives with regular moisture to support vibrant bark color and healthy foliage. Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch around the base (keep off the trunk) to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect the root system.
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