Japanese Maple ‘Butterfly’ adds a striking focal point to the garden with its delicate variegated leaves that shine in the sun. A popular ornamental tree with economic value in the timber industry, this plant is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ is an upright deciduous shrub or small tree with pretty variegated foliage of 5-7 lobed green leaves, irregularly margined with silvery-white and light touches of pink on the edges in spring. Some leaves may have no markings, while others may be solid cream.

Sometimes gracefully twisted, the pale portion of the leaves turns scarlet to magenta in the fall before shedding to the ground. Slow-growing, this Japanese Maple features an elegant vase-shaped habit and is ideal for containers or small gardens.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
The japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ has a certain requirement for sunlight and prefers a partially shaded area. In cases of exposure to direct sunlight in the summer, the leaves of most varieties will wither, so shading is required. As the plants get older and their root system grows, this condition will be less of a problem. A few varieties will tolerate exposure to direct sunlight, such as ‘Beni Maiko’ and ‘De Shojo’. Some weeping varieties can also tolerate exposure to direct sunlight, such as ‘Ao Shidare’.

Sunlight conditions will directly affect the ornamental appearance of japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ leaves. In the spring, sufficient sunlight will make the maple leaves more vivid, while in cases of insufficient sunlight or partial shading the leaf color may fade. During the fall, sunlight can also affect the leaf color. For potted plants, full exposure to sunlight is recommended during the spring and the fall, with partial shading in the summer.
Temperature
The japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ has good cold resistance and is able to tolerate low temperatures. The japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is native to the margins of forests in China, Japan, and North Korea, so these trees generally prefer a humid environment. Most japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ plants have shallow root systems, so they should be watered frequently during the summer. For some varieties, a sprayed mist should be provided during the summer to increase the humidity of the air around them.
Watering

Japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ originates from regions with moderate rainfall, exhibiting a preference for balanced moisture conditions. This plant exhibits a relative balance in its water habits, neither favoring drought nor excessive humidity. It thrives best when watered once every 1-2 weeks. Being deciduous, japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ drops its leaves during the dry season to conserve water, an adaptation that has allowed it to thrive both indoors and outdoors.
Soil
The japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ does not have many specific requirements for soil. It is a forest native, so it prefers well-drained soil that is rich in humus and slightly acidic. Its main root will extend deep into the soil, but its tiny fibrous roots will be concentrated near the soil surface, so accumulated water in the soil tends to cause root rot.
Fertilizing
For the optimal growth of japanese maple ‘Butterfly’, a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) should be applied in spring as growth begins, and a high-nitrogen fertilizer can be used mid-summer to promote foliage vigor. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks at quarter strength to avoid root burn and encourage steady growth. Seasonal changes necessitate reduced feeding in fall and none in winter when japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is dormant. Always water japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ thoroughly before and after fertilization to ensure even nutrient distribution and reduce the risk of chemical burn. Over-fertilization can lead to weak growth and should be avoided.
Planting Instructions

The best time for planting or transplanting a japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is following defoliation in the fall. At this time, the leaves will have fallen off so there is little transpiration and water loss can be avoided. In addition, the root system will still be growing at this time, preparing for regrowth the following spring. Transplanting should be avoided on the coldest days because cold wind can kill some of the shoots and branches. During the winter, in areas that cannot be sheltered from the wind, it is recommended to cover the branches.
Pruning
Pruning is mainly used to enhance internal ventilation, improve shoot formation, promote growth, and for shaping. The common approach to pruning is to remove any old or weak branches, remove any branches that disrupt the shape of the tree, and remove any branches that cross other branches. Pruning is used to control the plant according to the required height and shape. Generally, this follows the “Y-type” pruning method.
It is possible to prune a japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ throughout the year, but the coldest winter months should be avoided to prevent damage to the plant. Major pruning to shape a maple can be performed following defoliation in the fall, or prior to leaf growth in the spring. It is recommended to prune in the fall because withered and full buds can be easily distinguished.
According to the shaping plan, you can prune any withered buds and keep the full ones, thus making your tree healthier. For pruning in the summer, diseased, weak, or dead branches can be removed, mainly to enhance the tree’s ventilation.
If grown as a potted plant, the roots can easily occupy the entire flowerpot due to the limited space. This can make a japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ prone to aging if an old flowerpot is not changed. It is recommended that old roots are pruned during the dormancy period, that is, cut off any old, coarse, diseased, and weak roots.
Propagation

Japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is best propagated through grafting, where a scion from japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is attached to a compatible rootstock. This method ensures the variegated foliage and compact growth habit are preserved. Careful selection of rootstock and scion improves success rates, while a clean, precise cut enhances the grafting union. Securing the graft with appropriate tape or material promotes healing and stability during the critical initial growth period. It is essential to maintain optimal environmental conditions for the graft to take, including adequate moisture, light, and protection from extreme elements.
Transplanting
The perfect window to transplant japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ spans from when spring blossoms wane to the cusp of summer or during the mellow, crisp days of mid-autumn. Choose a spot dappled in shade with well-draining soil to welcome japanese maple ‘Butterfly”s roots.
Repotting
Ideal for repotting every 2-3 years, japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ thrives best when given space to extend its delicate, variegated foliage. Early spring, before leaf-out, is the optimal time, encouraging vigorous growth without stressing the plant. A slightly larger container will support its modest root system. Ensure good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix. After repotting, keep japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ in indirect sunlight and water consistently to maintain moisture without waterlogging.
III. Uses and Benefits
Japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is perfect as a specimen plant in cottage gardens, city gardens, or Japanese gardens and containers.