Article and pictures by David Marks. The history of acer palmatum ‘Koko’ is unknown being “rediscovered” by the Dutch firm Esveld who have marketed it with limited success over the last 20 years. When left un- pruned it will grow to around 5m / 16ft so is best suited to medium to large sized gardens. When fully grown it is an impressive tree with dense foliage and an interesting domed shape.

Throughout the seasons its leaf colour goes through significant changes. The immature leaf sprouts are green, quickly turning to an attractive dark pink as spring progresses. Pink turns to purple by mid-summer and in autumn the leaves turn to the traditional Japanese Maple bright crimson. At most stages the leaves contain random splashes of green as well as the base colour.

TECHNICAL DETAILS FOR ACER PALMATUM KOKO

Genus	Acer
Species	palmatum
Variety	‘Koko’
Light	Most levels of light suit Koko but some sun is needed to deepen the colours.
Hardy	Yes
Soil	Slightly acidic and well-drained
Height	5m / 16ft after 15 years
Spread	4m / 13ft after 15 years
Spread	An upright Japanese Maple with a rounded head
Colour	Bright pink to red to crimson
Colour	No, too vigorous
Bonsai	No

LEAF FORM

The leaves of Koko are long with six to eight lobes. The lobes are divided to half or three quarters of their length and serrated on the edges. The stalks remain green throughout the year. The tips are form sharp points giving them a very elegant appearance.

SUPPLIERS OF Koko
ESVELD (Holland)
Online and at Nursery in Holland