Plant Library

Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'

Floating Cloud Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum ‘Ukigumo’, meaning “Floating Clouds,” is a highly prized Japanese maple known for its soft, irregular variegation and ethereal appearance. Spring foliage emerges pale green splashed with creamy white and soft pink, often appearing lightly clouded or misted across the leaf surface.
As the season progresses, variegation may soften, with leaves maturing to light green with white markings, while pink tones can reappear during cool weather. In fall, ‘Ukigumo’ develops gentle shades of peach, coral, and soft red, providing subtle but elegant autumn color. Leaves are medium-sized with classic palmate form and irregular variegation.
The habit is upright and rounded, forming a graceful small tree. ‘Ukigumo’ performs best in partial shade, where leaf color is brightest and scorch is minimized, and prefers well-drained, evenly moist soil.
Size


Width: 10–15 ft


Height: 12–18 ft


Hardiness


USDA Zones: 5–8


Best Uses


Specimen tree for delicate variegation


Japanese or Asian-inspired gardens


Accent near patios or walkways


Shade-protected focal point


Collector tree for rare foliage effects

Minimum zone

5

Maximum zone

8

Height

12-18'

Width

10-15'