Acer platanoides Crimson King

Acer platanoides Crimson King is a purple leaved cultivar of the Norway Maple, Acer platanoides. Like the species, this tree has discrete yellow flowers that appear in spring and contrast fantastically with the dark purple foliage which gradually turns to maroon over the growing season then on to red in the autumn.

Acer platanoides Crimson King is a vigorous tree that tolerates most soil types, air pollution and resists the perils of drought. This large tree makes a super choice for avenue planting and should be planted at a minimum of 10m centres as the large and dark leaves have the potential to gobble up light, creating a sombre environment below the canopy. It is therefore far better to give this tree space to use the accessible light to explode the beauty in its dark foliage.

Interesting, the dark foliage contrasts well in an avenue with a green leaved form such as Acer platanoides Emerald Queen and can be extremely effective planted alternately. Dark colours are a useful in making a statement in the landscape, as contrasting colours tend to draw attention.

To get the best out of a landscape, it is advisable to situate deep or dark colours towards the edge, rather than a front of a scheme.

Mature height: 17-22m