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#6928
HOSHI KUZU JAPANESE MAPLE
Acer palmatum 'Hoshi kuzu'
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Root Pouch 5 gallon
(SKU: 20522)
0 - Available Now -
Details
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Grown in Root Pouch®.
List Price $195.00 Per Plant
Hardiness Zone: 5-8 · Mature Height: 6-10 Feet · Mature Spread: 4-6 Feet
Hoshi Kuzu Japanese Maple is subtle from a distance—and mesmerizing up close. Its tiny, irregularly lobed leaves carry soft cream-to-light-green variegation along the margins, creating a fine, shimmering effect across the canopy. In spring, new growth may emerge with hints of pink woven into the foliage before settling into its refined variegated display. The overall texture is delicate, almost airy, giving the tree a star-dusted appearance that lives up to its name. The variegation can fade or completely disappear as the seasons progress, which leads to quiet sophistication rather than loud contrast.
This compact upright Japanese maple is expected to reach approximately 6–10 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide over time, forming a balanced, mid-sized silhouette ideal for layered landscape design. The branching is tidy and controlled, making it a strong focal point without overwhelming surrounding plantings. As autumn approaches, the small leaves transform into a brilliant wash of red, often accented with orange and pink undertones. The color change feels painterly—like a sky shifting at sunset. It's a seasonal finale worthy of attention.
Botanically known as Acer palmatum 'Hoshi kuzu' this rare cultivar was introduced by J.D. Vertrees and discovered as a chance seedling from Kamagata Japanese Maple at Maplewood Nursery in 1987. Hardy in Zones 5–8, it performs best in partial shade, especially in hotter climates where afternoon protection preserves foliage quality. While moderately sun tolerant, filtered light enhances its variegation and fine leaf texture. For gardeners seeking a compact upright variegated Japanese maple with refined detail and strong fall color, Hoshi Kuzu Japanese Maple stands among the most elegant selections available.
HOSHI KUZU JAPANESE MAPLE Plant Characteristics
Bark Color*
| • | Gray |
Bark Type*
| • | Smooth |
Cultural Information*
| • | Leaf Scorch - Low Resistance |
| • | Leaf Spot - High Resistance |
| • | Powdery Mildew - Moderate Resistance |
| • | Root Rot - High Resistance |
Fruit Type*
| • | Non-Edible Fruit |
Growth Rate*
| • | Medium |
Leaf Type*
| • | Deciduous/Herbaceous |
Plant Type*
| • | Japanese Maple |
Preferred Soil Conditions*
| • | Adapts Well to Most Soil Types |
| • | Average |
| • | Moist |
| • | Tolerates High pH (Alkaline Soils) |
| • | Well-Drained |
Season of Interest*
| • | Early Spring |
| • | Fall |
| • | Late Spring/Early Summer |
| • | Late Summer/Early Autumn |
| • | Spring |
| • | Summer |
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HOSHI KUZU JAPANESE MAPLE Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips
- Recommended Soil:
- Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
- Slightly acidic soil supports best foliage color and vigor.
- Amend heavy clay to improve drainage before planting.
- Avoid consistently wet or poorly drained sites.
- Sun Exposure:
- Best in partial shade, especially afternoon shade in hot climates.
- Tolerates full sun in cooler regions with adequate moisture.
- Filtered light enhances variegation and prevents leaf scorch.
- Excessive intense sun may fade delicate leaf margins.
- Irrigation Needs:
- Water consistently during the first growing season.
- Maintain evenly moist but not soggy soil.
- Deep watering during extended dry periods supports foliage health.
- Mulch to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.
- Feeding & Nutrients:
- Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed.
- Top-dress annually with compost to maintain soil vitality.
- Avoid excessive nitrogen that may reduce variegation contrast.
- Do not over-fertilize young trees.
- Pruning & Maintenance:
- Minimal pruning required to maintain upright habit.
- Remove dead or crossing branches in late winter.
- Avoid heavy shaping that disrupts natural form.
- Protect from strong winter winds in exposed sites.
Family: Sapindaceae / Aceraceae · Common Name: Maple
FREE with every plant purchased:
- The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
- A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
- Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
- Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
- Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.
We use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.
Growing and Maintenance Tips for Acer
Maple Trees are easy to grow, and adapt well to most conditions.
- Plant large shade Maple Trees in full sun
- Plant Japanese Maple trees in morning shade or sun and evening shade
- Water daily until established, than as needed.
- Prefers moist, well draining soil.
- Feed once a year with a slow release fertilizer. To give your plant the best start possible, we include a free fertilizer packet.
Acer Interesting Notes
Interesting Notes About HOSHI KUZU JAPANESE MAPLE
- Name Meaning: "Hoshi kuzu" translates from Japanese as "stardust" or "star-studded sky," referencing the fine speckled variegation.
- Vertrees Introduction: This cultivar was introduced by J.D. Vertrees, author of the foundational Japanese maple reference books.
- Seedling Surprise: Hoshi kuzu originated as a chance seedling from the cultivar 'Kamagata' at Maplewood Nursery.
- Star-Shaped Foliage: The small leaves are somewhat star-shaped, enhancing the celestial theme of its name.
- Rare Status: Because of its refined variegation and compact habit, Hoshi kuzu remains highly sought after among collectors.
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