Acer palmatum ‘Bi-Hoo’ – Golden Bark Japanese Maple for Winter Interest
Acer palmatum ‘Bi-Hoo’ is a unique and highly ornamental Japanese maple, valued as much for its striking winter bark as for its delicate foliage. In spring, the finely cut leaves emerge a soft green with subtle yellow tones, creating a fresh and gentle display.
Through summer, the foliage remains light green, adding a calm, airy presence to the garden, before turning warm shades of yellow and gold in autumn. As the leaves fall, ‘Bi-Hoo’ reveals its most distinctive feature—smooth, glowing bark in vivid tones of golden yellow to amber, which intensifies in colder weather and provides outstanding winter interest.
Its upright, slightly vase-shaped habit forms a neat, compact tree, making it ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or container planting. Positioned where winter light can catch the stems, it becomes a standout feature during the colder months when structure and colour are most valued.
Best grown in a sheltered position with partial shade, ‘Bi-Hoo’ thrives in moist, well-drained soil and benefits from protection against strong winds.
Unusual, seasonal, and full of character, Acer ‘Bi-Hoo’ is an excellent choice for adding year-round interest, particularly for its luminous winter display.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh green foliage with soft yellow tones.
Summer: Light green, delicate canopy.
Autumn: Warm yellow and golden hues.
Winter: Bright golden-yellow bark provides standout colour.
Key Features
Golden winter bark – Striking seasonal interest.
Fresh green foliage – Light and airy appearance.
Compact habit – Ideal for smaller spaces.
Multi-season appeal – Interest year-round.
Low maintenance – Minimal pruning required.
Perfect For
Winter interest – Adds colour in colder months.
Feature planting – Unique focal point.
Borders – Adds structure and contrast.
Containers – Suitable for patios and courtyards.
Japanese-style gardens – Seasonal character.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Partial shade; best with some winter sun exposure.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK; shelter from strong winds.
Care: Minimal pruning; remove dead or crossing branches if required.
Looks Great With
Grasses – Hakonechloa, Molinia.
Evergreens – Taxus, Ilex, dark conifers.
Shade planting – Ferns, Hostas, Heuchera.
Winter stems – Cornus and Salix for seasonal contrast.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.