SelecTree

A Tree Selection Guide

PURPLE LEAF SYCAMORE MAPLE

Acer pseudoplatanus 'Atropurpureum'

FAMILY Sapindaceae

SYNONYMS

Acer pseudoplatanus 'Spaethii'

ADDITIONAL COMMON NAMES

WINELEAF SYCAMORE MAPLE

See: all Acer
Photo locations: Finch Arboretum - Spokane, WA, National Arboretum - Washington, DC and Los Angeles County Arboretum - Arcadia, CA
by J. Reimer

GENERAL INFO

Requires a moderate amount of water. Leaves are purple underneath. Needs consistent pruning.
Native range: Europe

TREE CHARACTERISTICS

Tree Shape: RoundedFoliage Type: DeciduousMaximum Tree Height: 60 feetCanopy Width: 40-60 feetGrowth Rate: ~24 in/yearLeaf Arrangement and Leaf Form: Opposite, SimpleLeaf Shape: Palmately-lobedLeaf color: Dark GreenFlowers: InconspicuousFlower Color: Green or YellowFlower Type: Has separate male and female reproductive parts on the same tree (monoecious)Flower Time: SpringFruit: Medium Brown SamaraFruiting time: FallBark Color: Dark Gray, Exfoliating, ScalyLitter Type: Dry Fruit

SITE CONDITIONS

Recommended Planting Area: Greater than 7'Water Use Rating: MediumSunset Climate Zone: 1 - 9, 14 - 20Shade Tolerance: NoUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4, 5, 6, 7Soil Texture: Loam or ClaySoil pH: Very Acidic to Slightly AlkalineSalt Tolerance: Moderate

CONSIDERATIONS

Branch Strength: MediumRoot Damage Potential: ModeratePotential health issues: AllergyDisease and Pest susceptibility: Armillaria, Sooty Mold and AphidsUtility Friendly: No

External Resources

The Wood Database

CITE THIS TREE

"SelecTree. UFEI. "Acer pseudoplatanus 'Atropurpureum' Tree Record." 1995-2025. Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Accessed on Jun 16, 2025."
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/99 >

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