Another maple clone purchased in 2024 – a variety I really wanted: Nishiki Gawa. Cork develops faster than in the case of Arakawa. Here, air layering is mandatory because the difference in bark tissue between the rootstock and the cultivar would be very noticeable.

In 2025, the air layer was successfully completed. After transplanting, the plant produced new growth even before winter.

Maple after being transplanted into a slightly wider pot, March 19, 2025. The beautiful green of young leaves.

Photo from spring 2024.

Barking progress from summer 2023 to spring 2025. This process takes a long time—at least several years are needed for the bark of the Arakawa variety to become mature, corky, and rough. This gives the appearance of an old, mature tree, unique and striking look.

Barking progress from summer 2023 to spring 2026. This process takes a long time—at least several years are needed for the bark of the Arakawa variety to become mature, corky, and rough. This gives the appearance of an old, mature tree, unique and striking look.