Acer pseudoplatanus 'ATROPURPUREUM' sycamore tree

Sycamore trees are our native plants. Their various cultivars find their use perhaps in all types and sizes of gardens. Still, there are gardeners who complain about some varieties with attractive foliage that is difficult to appreciate because the leaves are high in the crown. Well, get ready for a change – Atropurpureum offers quite the opposite.

This maple bears large leaves that are dark green on the upper side and velvety burgundy red on the reverse. And this is what you can see when looking up in the crown – deep burgundy red leaves. The green part of the leaves are seen only when the branches get longer and bend a little. In autumn leaves change to orange and gold. The tree is densely branched and compared to other trees with striking foliage this one looks like a respectable man with a good taste.

It grows fast when young, making an oval crown that changes to rounded with age and offers a good portion of shade. It is soil adaptable, provided it is well-drained. Grow it in full sun. It can take air-pollution, cold and wind. Fully hardy to -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 28-07-2011