Variegated Hedge Maple Tree

Variegated hedge maple (*Acer campestre* ‘Carnival’) is a compact deciduous small tree grown for broad creamy-white leaf margins around green centers and pink-flushed new growth. It typically reaches about 8–10 feet tall with a similar spread, making a bright foliage specimen for a small garden, courtyard, or large container. ## Landscape role This dense, shrubby selection is much smaller than a typical field maple. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/acer-campestre-carnival) reports 8–10 feet tall, while the [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/acer-campestre-carnival-carnival-hedge-maple) describes a roughly 10-foot plant with a similar spread and notes its use for bonsai. It works as a specimen where the leaf pattern can be seen up close; it does not provide the broad shade canopy of the species. ## Foliage and seasonal interest The three- to five-lobed leaves emerge pinkish, then mature to green centers edged by wide creamy-white margins. The variegation makes the plant a focal point through the growing season, and fall leaves can turn yellow. Oregon State reports that the selection can occasionally revert to the ordinary green-leaved form. Remove a reverted branch if keeping the variegated appearance is important. ## Growing conditions Give it well-drained soil and light to medium shade. The pale leaf margins may scorch in hot afternoon sun, so choose a sheltered position or provide afternoon shade. The [RHS cultivar profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/53893/acer-campestre-carnival-v/details) lists chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with acidic through alkaline soil tolerated. The [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/acer-campestre-carnival-carnival-hedge-maple) lists USDA zones 5–8. Small green spring flowers are typical of hedge maple; they are not the main ornamental feature. [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST010) describes the species’ inconspicuous green flowers. ## Cultivar and patent status Oregon State identifies ‘Carnival’ as a chance seedling developed by Andre van Nijnatten in Zundert, Netherlands, and introduced in 1989. I could not verify a separate brand or plant-patent number in the university and botanical profiles reviewed. ## Maintenance Water regularly during establishment and keep the root zone from drying for long periods. Once established, adjust irrigation to local rainfall, soil, and heat. Prune only to shape the small tree or remove damaged, crossing, or reverted shoots; avoid early spring pruning, when maples may bleed sap. Mulch broadly over the root zone without piling it against the trunk.