Description

Key Characteristics:

• Foliage: The leaves are deeply lobed and palmate, emerging in a soft, bright lime green in the spring. They mature to a vibrant, fresh green throughout the summer, which holds its colour well. In autumn, the foliage transitions into brilliant shades of yellow and orange, sometimes with fiery red highlights.
• Stems: One of the most distinctive features of ‘Going Green’ is its stems, which are a beautiful bright green colour. These stems are particularly noticeable in winter after the leaves have fallen, providing a striking contrast and acting as a point of interest when many other plants are dormant.
• Growth Habit: This is a compact, upright, and bushy cultivar with a moderate growth rate. It typically reaches a mature height of 4 to 6 meters with a spread of 2 to 4 meters, making it a good choice for smaller gardens.

Growing Conditions and Care:

• Light and Position: ‘Going Green’ thrives in a location that receives either full sun or partial shade. However, it is essential to protect it from strong winds, which can scorch its delicate leaves.
• Soil: It prefers a moist, well-drained, and fertile soil. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it performs best in neutral to slightly acidic soil. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
• Hardiness: This cultivar is fully hardy across the UK, rated H6 (down to -20°C).
• Pruning: It requires minimal pruning. Any dead, damaged, or crossing branches should be removed in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant. Heavy pruning is generally not recommended as it can spoil the plant’s graceful natural shape.

Uses in Landscaping:

• Specimen Plant: With its elegant form, vibrant leaf and stem color, and seasonal interest, ‘Going Green’ is an excellent choice as a specimen plant, providing a focal point in a lawn or border.
• Container Gardening: Its relatively slow and compact growth makes it well-suited for growing in large containers, which is ideal for patios, courtyards, or smaller gardens.
• Winter Interest: The bright green stems are a valuable feature in winter, making it a great addition to a mixed border or a woodland garden where it can be seen against a dark background.