Great Plant Pick: Acer crataegifolium ‘Veitchii,’ variegated hawthorn maple

Published 1:30 am Friday, July 24, 2020

What: The small leaves of Acer crataegifolium “Veitchii” are delicately splashed and streaked with snow-white variegation. The showy leaves are interesting yet understated and do not overpower surrounding plantings. Variegated hawthorn maple is a great small- to medium-sized tree with bright green bark striped in bluegreen and white that shines in the winter. The small leaves turn gold and orange in the fall and drop all at once, making clean-up easy. The upright vase shape is handsome in the garden and keeps branches up and out of the way.

Where: The bright variegated foliage and the vibrant green stems keep their color best in open to dappled shade. Keep the main trunk protected from full sun to prevent splitting and damage during the winter. Provide a location with well-drained soil.

Size: This selection of hawthorn maple will grow to be 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide when mature.

Care: It needs occasional watering during summer dry spells. Hawthorn maples have a lovely structure, and they require very little pruning to maintain their form.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks