Rhododendron Mrs George Huthnance

This outstanding 80 year old specimen of red weeping Japanese Maple is a breathtaking natural wonder that we are very fortunate although reluctant to offer for sale. There is an awe-inspiring beauty within this tree which is only developed with the irreplaceable factor of time. Year upon year of character-building has rewarded this specimen with maturity and solidity that reflects absolute magnificence. The incredible intertwined trunk formation weaves and mazes its way upward with each branch seeming to have a mind entirely of its own. The wonderful textures and patterns it displays are a testament to its age.

Acer ‘Palmatum’. Atropurpurea is one of the most highly regarded types of Japanese Maple, with year-round beauty. In spring the flushed red foliage at its summit cascades down to lovely fresh hues of yellows, oranges, and vibrant greens, then mingles into lower leaves of deep mauve. Summer brings a very dark crimson, almost black red, without the common summer ‘bronze-out’ of many of its other cultivars. Autumn is its crowning glory as it displays a full coverage of brilliant bonfire red.

The Japanese Maples have an aura of antiquity and are identifiable by their compact shape and attractively sculptural branching habit. They are a true collector plant due to the degree of difference between one plant and another. For many years Japan had a rich tradition of finding, collecting, catergorizing, naming, propagating and exhibiting the numerous varieties of Japanese Maples, this is known as ‘The Edo period’  [1600-1700ad]. The Japanese maple became the heart of garden design in the early 1900s when North America and Eurpope discovered Japan and its prolific nurseries.

The form of this particular tree is exceptionally stunning in character and we can well imagine it situated in a raised focal point in a sheltered courtyard where the internal branching structure is easily visible and best enjoyed. This graceful tree could also beautifully compliment large scale water features such as ponds and streams. Some suggested companion shrubs and trees would be small ornamental confiers, cercis varieties, rhododendrons, and camellias.

Most certainly the oldest tree currently for sale in New Zealand, it deserves a grand location and an appreciating audience. The new owner will be privileged to possess one of natures finest  masterpieces.