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Coral Bark Japanese Maple 'Beni Kawa': Vibrant Red Winter Stems, Hardier Alternative

Coral Bark Japanese Maple Beni Kawa

Beni Kawa bark

Beni Kawa foliage

Beni Kawa form

Overview

Coral Bark Japanese Maple 'Beni Kawa' (Acer palmatum 'Beni Kawa') is prized for its brilliant red bark that provides stunning winter interest, similar to 'Sango kaku' but often considered hardier and more vigorous. Its green leaves turn golden-yellow in fall, revealing the vibrant stems. An excellent choice for cold-climate gardeners seeking winter color.

Botanical Details

Family: Sapindaceae (sap-in-DAY-see-ee)
Genus: Acer (AY-ser)
Species: Acer palmatum (pahl-MAY-tum)
Cultivar: 'Beni Kawa'

Growing Conditions

Hardy in USDA zones 5-8 (possibly zone 4 with protection). Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil in full sun to partial shade. Best bark color develops in full sun. Water regularly. Prune in winter to encourage new, brightly colored growth.

Design Ideas

Plant where winter silhouette can be appreciated: against evergreens, near a window, or in a mixed border. Also effective in large containers for seasonal display.

Japanese Maples: Coral Bark Japanese Maple 'Sango kaku': Stunning Winter Interest with Vibrant Red Stems; Japanese Maple 'Bloodgood': The Classic Deep Red Landscape Standard; Japanese Maple 'Shaina': Compact Red Dwarf for Small Spaces; Japanese Maple 'Fireglow': Intense Red Upright for Small Gardens; Japanese Maple 'Atropurpureum': The Classic Red-Leaf Seedling Type; Japanese Maple 'Beni hoshi': Red Star Dwarf with Tiny Leaves; Beni fushigi Cutleaf Japanese Maple: A Mysterious Red Threadleaf; Bihou Coral Bark Japanese Maple: A Yellow-Barked Cultivar; 'Beni Shi En' Japanese Maple: Delicate Purple-Red Foliage; Coral Bark Japanese Maple 'Kurabu Yama'

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