Make sure that the root ball of the Acer palmatum 'Butterfly' is well drenched before planting. Soak the root ball in a bucket of lukewarm water beforehand. Dig a wide planting hole and thoroughly loosen the soil with a fork. Place the root ball of the Japanese ‘Butterfly’ at the correct depth in the plant hole. The top of the root ball should be just slightly below the surface. Fill the planting hole with soil and press firmly down. Water immediately after planting. Japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ likes soil rather acidic, rich in humus and fairly moist. Improve poor garden soil by adding some garden peat and compost. Clay soil is less suitable. Plant the shrub in partial shade.

Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ is a strong shrub that requires minimal maintenance. This Japanese maple grows less well in dry soil, so water more frequently during dry periods. If planted in a pot or tub, avoid choosing a location in full sun for your Japanese maple. Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ is fairly slow-growing and therefore requires very little pruning. In June, if necessary, the long branches can be trimmed back slightly so that the shrub retains its shape.

The fresh green leaves of Acer palmatum ‘Butterfly’ are delicately cut. The leaf has a beautifully fresh green colour with a clean white margin. This compact ornamental shrub is suitable for the small garden, borders and rock garden. It will take 10 years to reach a height of 2 metres Japanese maple ‘Butterfly’ is therefore perfect for growing in a large flower pot or tub on your patio or decking.