Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

$1,100.00

Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Size: 150L

30m/33cm 40cm/45L 50cm/75L 100L 150L 200L 1500L 2000L

Current Stock Height Guides

40cm/45L: 1.2m – 1.6m Approx.
100L: 1.5m – 2.8m Approx.
200L: Enquire within for height guide information.

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only.

As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range.

If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase.

Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

All stock is grown, maintained and graded in strict accordance with AS 4373-2007, Australian Standard for Nursery Stock.

About Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

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?

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.

Distinguishing Features

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is a great option for you if you:

Want Autumn Colour
Have A Small Garden
Want To Add Impact With A Feature Tree
Want To Plant in Pots
Want Something For A Tight Space
Need Frost Tolerance

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 4 m – 6 m

Mature Width: 4 m – 5 m

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is expected to grow 30 – 45 cm per year (slow to moderate).

Root Ball Dimensions (Height & Width)

Use this as a reference when digging your planting hole. We recommend digging at least 10% wider than the dimensions below to encourage strong root development.

30cm Pot: 33cm (W) × 30cm (D)
40cm/45L Pot: 44cm (W) × 41.5cm (D)
50cm Pot / 70L Pot: 55cm (W) × 41.8cm (D)
100L Bag: 50.6cm (W) × 52.8cm (D)
150L Bag: 66cm (W) × 55cm (D)
200L Bag: 71.5cm (W) × 60.5cm (D)
300L Bag: 88cm (W) × 63.8cm (D)
400L Bag: 99cm (W) × 66cm (D)
500L Bag: 122cm (W) × 66cm (D)
750L Bag: 134cm (W) × 69cm (D)
1000L Bag: 146.3cm (W) × 71.5cm (D)
2000L Bag: 176cm (W) × 82.5cm (D)

Trade Customers

We supply advanced trees to landscapers, developers, architects, and councils Australia-wide. Trade clients receive fast quotes, expert advice, and access to premium stock with reliable freight.

Shipping Cost

Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the pallet space your order occupies in the truck and your delivery location.

There is no charge to calculate your freight.

VOLUME DISCOUNTS

10% off orders over $1,000
15% off orders over $2,000
20% off orders over $7,500

Discounts Apply Automatically at Checkout

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About Your New Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

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?

Where in Australia does Atropurpureum grow best?

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?

Is Atropurpureum deciduous?

Yes. Atropurpureum is fully deciduous. It drops its crimson autumn foliage in winter and produces new burgundy spring leaves.

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Variant	Quantity	Price	Variant total
30m/33cmACEPALATR30CM/33CM $160.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$160.00/ea	$0.00
40cm/45LACEPALATR40cm/45L $350.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$350.00/ea	$0.00
50cm/75LACEPALATR50CM/75L $580.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$580.00/ea	$0.00
100LACEPALATR100L $780.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$780.00/ea	$0.00
150LACEPALATR150L $1,100.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$1,100.00/ea	$0.00
200LACEPALATR200L $1,620.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$1,620.00/ea	$0.00
1500LACEPALATR1500L $22,990.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$22,990.00/ea	$0.00
2000LACEPALATR2000L $29,040.00/ea Remove Quantity Remove $0.00	Quantity Remove	$29,040.00/ea	$0.00

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Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

$21.95

Features and Benefits

Organically certified product
Improves aeration for roots
A rich blend of Pure Magic Compost, composted animal manure, Gypsum, composted coarse bark and wetting agent
Excellent to mix with heavy clay soils, an organic mixture with added gypsum which is perfect for exotic plants
Revitalises tired soils, adds nutrient and organic matter, no chemical additives, weed free
Assists in retaining moisture in the soil longer after rain or watering

Directions For Use

Water plant well at least several hours prior to planting.
Dig a hole at least twice the width of the pot and 7cm deeper than the pot.
Mix Grow Better Enriched Planting Mix with the soil that has been dug out of the hole, adding about 1/3 planting mix.
Spread a 7cm layer of improved soil in the hole and remove plant from the pot. Tease roots gently if the root ball is very firm and place plant in the planting hole. Check that pot soil is level with the surrounding soil surface level, not higher or lower.
Fill in the hole with improved soil mixture, firm down soil and water well adding Grow Better Plant Starter to final watering.

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Enriched Planting Mix (AO Certified)

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Uses in my Garden

Feature Tree
Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple works in an:

Japanese Inspired – serene balance of form, foliage, and flow.
Formal Garden – structured, symmetrical design with clipped shapes.
Cottage Garden – romantic mix of flowers, colour, and texture.
Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple Evergreen or Deciduous?

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is an Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months) Tree

Mature Height & Width

Mature Height: 4 m – 6 m

Mature Width: 4 m – 5 m

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is expected to grow 30 – 45 cm per year (slow to moderate).

Growth Rate of Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is expected to grow 30 – 45 cm per year (slow to moderate).

They are considered to have a:

Medium Growth Rate

Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple frost tolerant?

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

Does Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple Flower?

Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ produces small clusters of red spring flowers that sit delicately beneath the emerging foliage. Though subtle, these early blooms offer a light seasonal highlight and provide a pollen source for beneficial insects.

Does Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple flower?

Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

Spring

Flower Type:

Pollinator-attracting

Flower Colour:

Red

Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple an Australian Native Tree?

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is Native to Native to Japan, Korea, and China, where Acer palmatum grows naturally in woodlands. ‘Atropurpureum’ is a long-cultivated selection valued for its deep foliage colour.

What is the Wildlife Value of Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple ?

Its fine branching provides sheltered perching and nesting sites for small birds, while its spring flowers support native bees and beneficial insects. The dense canopy also creates a cool micro-habitat that enriches garden biodiversity.

How much Sunlight does Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple need?

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple will thrive best in:

Full Sun
Part Shade

Preferred Soil?

Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam soils and prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions. It can struggle in heavy clay or poorly drained areas unless improved with organic matter to increase aeration and drainage. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then continue with deep, occasional watering as the tree matures, especially during hot, dry periods.

Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple Drought Tolerant?

Is Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple Drought tolerant?

As a young tree it requires consistent watering, but once established Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ develops low to moderate drought tolerance. It prefers protection from hot, dry winds and benefits from deep, occasional watering during extended heat to maintain leaf colour and canopy health.

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How To Plant Your Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

How to Plant Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'

Location Choice: A spot with dappled sunlight is ideal, ensuring protection from harsh afternoon rays.
Soil Enrichment: Amend the soil with organic matter to boost its fertility and drainage capabilities.
Hole Specifications: Prepare a hole roughly twice the size of the tree's root ball.
Positioning: Gently place the Japanese Maple in the hole, refill with soil, and press gently.
Water Generously: After planting, water the tree adequately to encourage root establishment.

Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

Hedging & Screening: Not suitable for hedging.

Feature Tree: Plant 2 m – 3 m apart to showcase its elegant branching and foliage.

Avenue Planting Trees: Not typically used for avenue planting.

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple is expected to grow 30 – 45 cm per year (slow to moderate).

Medium Growth Rate

Long Term Care For Your Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' Japanese Maple

Caring for Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'

Watering: Regular watering ensures the soil remains moist, especially during dry periods.
Pruning: Winter or early spring is the ideal time for light pruning, focusing on dead or overcrowded branches.
Mulching: Using organic mulch aids in moisture retention and temperature regulation.
Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-resistant, but occasionally monitor for aphids or scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is this tree suitable for hedging or screening?
A. No, Japanese Maple is best used as a feature tree or ornamental accent due to its form and structure.

Q. How fast does Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ grow?
A. It grows slowly to moderately, averaging 30 – 45 cm per year depending on conditions.

Q. What makes this variety stand out?
A. Its deeply lobed, purple-red foliage transitions to brilliant crimson in autumn, offering striking seasonal colour.

Q. Can it be grown in pots or containers?
A. Yes, it performs well in large containers and is also popular for bonsai and courtyard planting.

Q. What conditions does it prefer?
A. Partial shade is ideal; it tolerates full sun with protection from harsh afternoon heat. It prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil.

Q. Is it low maintenance?
A. Yes, it requires only light pruning to maintain form, along with consistent moisture — especially during warmer months.

Q. Does it tolerate tough climates or exposure?
A. It handles partial shade and urban conditions but is sensitive to strong winds and extreme heat.