About

Acer negundo var. violaceum is a medium-sized deciduous tree with a bushy form. The young branches exhibit a purple hue, often coated in a white powdery film. The compound leaves consist of 5 to 7 leaflets, starting as a bronze-green shade and transitioning to a deeper green as they mature. In the spring, male specimens produce noticeable pink-purple, tassel-shaped flowers.

About the genus

Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
N USA

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed or grafting
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus