Acer Palmatum 'Bihou' Japanese Maple
Best unique specimen for discerning garden enthusiasts.
The Acer Palmatum 'Bihou' Japanese Maple is a striking deciduous tree known for its upright form and dense, dark green foliage. Its most distinctive feature is its vibrant yellow bark, which becomes particularly prominent during the winter months, offering a unique visual appeal. This tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, organically-rich, and moisture-retentive soil that is slightly acidic. With a very fast growth rate, the 'Bihou' Japanese Maple is a captivating addition to any landscape, providing year-round interest.
$80.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
313
/ 1245
#313 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-25%
Below average
Botanical Name
Acer Palmatum ‘Bihou’
/ Acer Palmatum ‘Bihou’
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking striking color and texture in winter.
- Homeowners desiring a refined, architectural focal point.
- Gardeners in diverse regions looking for a sturdy maple.
Who should skip it
- Enthusiasts in hot, sunny climates without adequate shade.
- Impatient gardeners expecting rapid landscape transformation.
- Novice gardeners preferring truly hands-off plant care.
Performance breakdown
Winter Visual Impact
Vibrant yellow bark provides unmatched seasonal interest in dormant landscapes.
Growth Velocity
Rapid development makes this an ideal choice for quick landscape establishment.
Foliage Density
Lush, dark green leaves create a substantial and healthy canopy.
Site Adaptability
Versatile light requirements allow for flexible placement in most garden settings.
Soil Sensitivity
Requires specific acidic, well-drained conditions to truly thrive and flourish.
Structural Form
Upright growth habit offers a clean, architectural silhouette for modern gardens.
Key Specs
Botanical Name
Acer Palmatum ‘Bihou’
Form
Upright Tree
Light
Full Sun to Partial Shade
USDA Zones
7-9
Foliage
Dense dark green
Bark
Yellow in winter
Soil
Well-drained, organically-rich, slightly acidic
Growth Rate
Very Fast
Features
- Striking yellow bark in winter
- Upright tree form
- Dense, dark green foliage
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade
- Prefers well-drained, rich soil
- Very fast growth rate
What customers say
Customers consistently express high satisfaction with this Japanese Maple. A dominant theme is the exceptional quality of the plant received; many reviewers note its vibrant health, robust root system, and careful, secure packaging that ensures safe transit. The unique beauty and distinctive characteristics of the variety are frequently celebrated, exceeding expectations for its ornamental appeal. Furthermore, customers often highlight the excellent value for money, appreciating the plant's size and vigor relative to its cost. This combination of superior plant health and perceived value contributes to a very positive overall experience.
Know before you buy
The 'Bihou' is primarily prized for its vibrant yellow bark, which becomes exceptionally bright and eye-catching during the winter months. This feature provides significant visual interest in the landscape long after the leaves have fallen.
Because the 'Bihou' has a very fast growth rate and an upright form, it will reach its mature size relatively quickly. You should plant it in a location that allows for its vertical expansion and ensures it won't crowd nearby structures or smaller plants.
The 'Bihou' is rated for USDA zones 7-9, meaning it is well-suited for these climates. However, in the hotter end of its range, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the foliage from scorching and keep the tree looking its best.
This maple requires well-drained, organically-rich soil that is slightly acidic. If your native soil is heavy clay or lacks drainage, consider amending it with organic matter or planting in a raised bed to prevent root rot.
Due to its natural upright form, the 'Bihou' generally maintains a tidy structure on its own. Minimal pruning is required, though you should remove any dead or crossing branches in late winter to encourage healthy growth.
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$80