B. ‘Kaede-Iron’

B. ‘Kaede-Iron’ was exposed to 10 kR Cobalt-60
gamma-rays. It had large, pentagonal leaves with
a soft red-brown color. It was named after the
Japanese word for maple tree, kaede, due to its leaves looking similar in shape to maple leaves.
B. ‘Kaede-Iron’ was also a non-chimeric mutation
and was described as being a very strong grower.

Using a 60Co-7 source, adventitious buds of leaf cuttings were irradiated at a dose rate of 1,500 R/hr for a total dose of 10 kR (1972). The plant was separated and stabilized by cutting back and division in 1974.

The pattern has changed to a reddish-brown iron cross on a light green background.

Unlike the parent variety, this variety has large leaves, measuring 20-25 cm in length and 20-25 cm in width, and is pentagonal in shape, similar to maple leaves. They look similar. There are few fine hairs. It is a large plant, reaching a height of 35-50 cm, and is sturdy and grows vigorously. Propagation through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, petiole cuttings, division. It is used as a potted plant for windowsills or indoors.

• Classification: Cultivar
• Plant Type: Rhizomatous
• Origin: Asia, Japan
• Originator: Naoki Matsubara & Hirokatsu Suda
• Date of Origin: 1974