Acer palmatum 'Atropurpurem' - Japanese Maple

Elegant deciduous Japanese Maple with stunning deep burgundy to purple-red foliage.   Compact small tree perfect for residential gardens, courtyards and feature plantings.

Quick Info

Height: 4–6m (compact, rounded canopy)

Width: 3–4m

Growth Rate: Moderate

Tolerances: Very hardy – excellent for cool temperate regions. Tolerates frost once established.

Positioning: Full sun to part shade – Protect from harsh afternoon sun in warmer regions to prevent leaf scorch

Perfect For

> Feature tree in residential gardens

> Small shade tree in the warmer months

> Japanese and Asian-style garden designs

> Courtyard and balcony planting in large pots

> Focal points and architectural plantings

> Deciduous interest for colour interest

> Formal and contemporary landscapes

Plant Variety Overview

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum' is the classic burgundy Japanese Maple, prized for its distinctive deep purple-red foliage that maintains rich colour throughout the entire growing season.

Unlike standard green-leaved maples that only colour in autumn, Atropurpureum delivers year-round ornamental interest with leaves emerging deep burgundy in spring, deepening through summer, then shifting to vivid crimson in autumn.

The compact, rounded canopy with elegant delicate branching and finely lobed palmate leaves creates sophisticated visual impact. Atropurpureum's deep foliage colour contrasts beautifully against green hedges, pale walls and architectural stonework, making it an exceptional focal point for any landscape.

Why You'll Love It

> Colour: Deep burgundy-purple foliage from spring through summer, shifting to vivid crimson in autumn, superior sustained colour compared to green-leaved varieties

> Compact Form: Perfect for residential gardens, courtyards and large container plantings without dominating the space

> Elegant Branching: Delicate, graceful branch structure creates natural architectural beauty requiring minimal pruning

> Distinctive Foliage: Finely lobed palmate leaves with rich colour contrasts beautifully against green plantings and architecture

> Versatile Hardiness: Performs well in cool temperate regions including VIC, NSW Southern Highlands, ACT and Tasmania

> Low-Maintenance: Once established, requires minimal care beyond consistent moisture and light pruning

Growing Guide

Climate & Hardiness: Performs best in cool to temperate regions including VIC, NSW Sydney, Southern Highlands, Blue Mountains, South Coast, ACT, Tasmania and elevated parts of SA and WA. Very hardy once established. In warmer climates, plant in part shade to protect foliage from scorching.

Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade. In cooler regions, full sun produces deepest purple colour. In warmer areas, afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch.

Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid waterlogging. Deep, free-draining soil with added compost or peat promotes healthy growth.

Water Management: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry periods. Water regularly to maintain moist (not waterlogged) soil. Mulch to retain moisture during summer.

Wind Tolerance: Protect from harsh, drying winds which can cause leaf scorch and damage delicate foliage.

Pest & Disease Management: Generally very hardy with few pest or disease issues. Generally pest-free compared to other deciduous trees.

Pruning & Maintenance: Minimal pruning required. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead branches. Avoid heavy pruning which disrupts natural elegant form.

Height Approximates in Pots for this Variety