- Mature height
- 4m to 6m
- Mature width
- 4m to 5m
Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' is the classic burgundy Japanese Maple, with finely lobed purple-red foliage that holds rich colour through the entire growing season. Leaves emerge deep burgundy in spring, deepen through summer, and shift to vivid crimson in autumn, giving more sustained colour impact than green-leaved cultivars that only colour in autumn.
Atropurpureum grows to 4-6 metres tall and 3-4 metres wide with a rounded canopy form. The compact size and elegant branching habit suit residential gardens, courtyards, Japanese-style landscapes, and large pots, and the deep foliage colour contrasts beautifully against green hedges, pale walls, and architectural stonework.
Atropurpureum performs best in cool to temperate regions including VIC, NSW Southern Highlands, ACT, Tasmania, and elevated parts of SA and WA. In warmer climates plant in part shade to protect foliage from scorching, in well-drained soil with consistent moisture during dry spells.
Atropurpureum or Osakazuki? Both are upright Acer palmatum cultivars. Atropurpureum holds deep burgundy-purple foliage through the whole growing season. Osakazuki has bright green summer foliage that transitions to famously brilliant scarlet in autumn. Choose Atropurpureum for continuous purple foliage, or Osakazuki for explosive autumn impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple
How tall does Atropurpureum grow?
Atropurpureum grows to 4-6 metres tall and 3-4 metres wide with a rounded canopy form.
How fast does Atropurpureum grow?
Atropurpureum has a moderate growth rate of 30-50cm per year once established.
What colour is Atropurpureum?
Atropurpureum produces deep burgundy to purple-red foliage in spring, holding rich colour through summer, then deepening to vivid crimson in autumn before leaves drop. Its summer colour holds better than many other red-leaf maples.
Where in Australia does Atropurpureum grow best?
Atropurpureum performs best in cool to temperate regions including VIC, NSW Southern Highlands, ACT, Tasmania, and elevated parts of SA and WA. In warmer climates plant in part shade to protect foliage from scorching.
Can Atropurpureum grow in pots?
Yes. Atropurpureum is excellent in large pots (60L+) and is widely used as a courtyard, balcony, or entrance feature.
What is the difference between Atropurpureum and standard Japanese Maple?
Standard Acer palmatum produces green spring foliage with red-orange autumn colour. Atropurpureum offers rich burgundy-purple foliage through the growing season, making it the choice for continuous colour rather than just autumn impact.
Is Atropurpureum deciduous?
Yes. Atropurpureum is fully deciduous. It drops its crimson autumn foliage in winter and produces new burgundy spring leaves.