Ikandi Japanese Maple – 3 Gallon Pot (4-5′)

Discovered by Talon Bucholz and perhaps the pinkest of the reticulated Japanese maples, ‘Ikandi’, pronounced “eye candy,” is an upright, vase-shaped, medium-size Acer palmatum that might reach 12 to 15 feet tall and 8 to 10 or so feet wide at maturity. It sports some amazing foliage variegation and changing colors throughout the seasons. In early spring, the ruffled new leaves emerge a salmon-orange color quickly transitioning to an almost a solid bubblegum pink with hints of green and white. By late spring the leaves have transitioned to a zebra-striped variegation of green and white, holding on to a touch of pink. With the arrival of cooler temperatures in fall the leaves begin transitioning to a kaleidoscope of vibrant color shades from yellows and oranges to reds and purples. Its electric green bark contrasts beautifully with the fall foliage and provides interest throughout the year, especially during the winter months. The coloration of Ikandi will be its best when the tree is situated in a spot that provides some protection from direct afternoon sun. Morning sun with afternoon shade or all-day filtered sun is fine. A fine specimen tree for small to medium size garden spaces and near patios, porches, decks and other outdoor sitting and living spaces where it will certainly provide eye candy.

Note: The leaf variegation of Ikandi develops more intensity as the tree ages.