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Karasu Gawa Japanese Maple Tree

Acer palmatum 'Karasu Gawa'

Nature Hills Nursery
$21002
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: The Karasu Gawa Japanese Maple thrives in dappled sunlight or afternoon shade. Aim for 4 to 6 hours of morning sun to develop the best pink and white variegation. Too much hot, direct afternoon sun can scorch the delicate white portions of the leaves, while deep shade will cause the colors to fade to a solid green.
  • Soil: This tree prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a raised mound to keep the roots above the "bathtub" of sitting water. For sandy soils, mix in compost or peat moss to help hold onto the moisture these maples crave.

Watering Requirements

During the first two years of establishment, water your tree deeply twice a week to ensure the root system anchors properly. Once mature, the Karasu Gawa is moderately drought tolerant but will show its stress through crispy leaf edges if the soil dries out completely. Consistent moisture is the secret to maintaining those vibrant, multi-colored leaves throughout the heat of summer.

Pruning Tips

This cultivar is slow-growing and rarely needs heavy pruning, but it should only be trimmed in late fall or mid-winter when the tree is dormant. Since it produces growth on a mix of old and new wood, focus on "cleaning up" the structure by removing dead twigs or crossing branches to improve air circulation. Think of it like a light thinning to show off the tree's natural architectural shape rather than a radical haircut.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer in early spring just as the buds begin to swell. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this encourages soft, new growth that won't have time to "harden off" or toughen up before the first frost. A steady, mild feeding schedule ensures the tree has the energy to produce its signature variegated foliage without risking winter dieback.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4 Week of March 30th
Zone 5 Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12 Week of March 2nd


Shipping Rates

Ships in 3-4 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

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The Karasu Gawa is no ordinary Japanese Maple Tree! It is known to put everyone who comes in sight of it into utter shock with its unique beauty! The palmate, toothy-edged, pointed-lobed leaves are gorgeous on their own, but then you add the multiple colors, and the result is absolutely stunning!

The Karasu Gawa Japanese Maple (Acer Palmatum 'Karasu Gawa') has spring leaves that emerge with various colors; starting out as hot pink! Then this Maple tree becomes speckled with a variety of colors - including pink, white, and green! Creating a unique effect!

Karasu Gawa Japanese Maple portrays a rounded shape and is slightly top-heavy. This allows the deciduous tree to be ideal for planting small perennials below the colorful canopy! This plant is known for its immaculate beauty and leaves a lasting impression on your landscaping year-round. Hardy throughout USDA planting zones 5 to 7, growing to a modest 6 - 8 feet in height and 5 - 6 feet wide.

Landscape Application:

You name it, this large shrub or small shrubby tree really can do it all! Planting along the border of your property adds a beautiful array of colors making your yard look spectacular throughout the year! The colorful leaves are a must-have front yard specimen plant, looking even better when elevated upon a berm or raised garden!

Show off these beauties front and center where you and everyone else can see them! (and maybe get a little bit jealous!)

A pair of these Variegated Maples on both corners of your home's foundation boosts curb appeal, while a row of them along the sidewalk becomes a beautiful screening hedge that adds privacy to your front yard! Karasu Gawa is also a gorgeous street tree!

Mix into a Zen Garden or Asian-Inspired water garden with boulders for the branching to cascade and tumble over lyrically! Plant one by the front of your front steps or at the end of your driveway for a significant boost of curb appeal!

  • Hot Pink Spring Leaves!
  • Ages Speckled White, Pink & Green Foliage For The Summer
  • Toothy Palmate Lacy Foliage
  • Mid-Sized Tree or Shrub Form With Pruning
  • Beautiful Privacy Shrub, Showy Specimens & Gorgeous Groupings

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Morning sun and protective shade in the afternoon are essential to keep the delicate foliage of this plant happy and stress-free. Plant in organically enriched well-drained soil with regular moisture access. A nice 3-4 inch layer of mulch over the root zone is what keeps the moisture uniform and buffers heat and cold. Prune if needed when dormant and remove crossing, broken or wayward branches at this time.

  • Partial Shade/Afternoon Shaded Locations
  • Well-Drained Soil
  • Consistent Moderate Moisture Needs
  • Prune When Dormant
  • Appreciates Mulched Beds

Don't hesitate and trust your instincts to buy this magnificent Karasu Gawa Japanese Maple Tree from Nature Hills Nursery today!

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