Overview
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' is a deciduous tree in the genus Acer, part of the Sapindaceae family. It typically grows around 8.0 m tall. Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include ornamental, specimen tree and shade tree. It is native to Japan.
About
Acer palmatum, commonly known as Japanese maple, palmate maple, or smooth Japanese maple, is a species of woody plant native to Korea, Japan, China, eastern Mongolia, and far eastern Russia. Many different cultivars of this maple have been selected and they are grown worldwide for their large variety of attractive forms, leaf shapes, and spectacular colors.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acer palmatum
About the genus
Acer is a genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as maples. The genus is placed in the soapberry family Sapindaceae. There are approximately 132 species, most of which are native to East Asia, with a number also appearing in Europe, northern Africa, and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Maple", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Maple
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acer
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Deciduous tree
- Height
- 8.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental, specimen tree, shade tree
- Native to
- Japan
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered position, avoid strong winds, protect from late frosts
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape
- Propagation
- Grafting, cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'?
Prefers sheltered position, avoid strong winds, protect from late frosts.
Where is the best place to plant Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'?
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' prefers full sun. It suits partial shade positions.
What soil does Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' need?
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'?
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
How big does Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' grow?
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' reaches a height of 8.0 m.
Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' hardy in the UK?
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'?
Grafting, cuttings.
More in the Acer genus
- Acer grosseri
- Acer palmatum 'Englishtown' (Dw)Japanese Maple
- Acer palmatum 'Hippy-fin-mo' (Dw)Japanese Maple
- Acer palmatum 'Korin' (A)Japanese Maple
- Acer shirasawanum 'Red Dawn'Shirasawa maple
