Key features
Final size6 x 2 metres in 20 years
FoliageLobed purple and red leaves with autumn colour (deciduous)
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
A beautiful feature tree, this Purple Norway Maple has dark crimson foliage which covers the upright branches. Growing to just 6 x 2 metres in 20 years, Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’ is ideal for small gardens and it would also make a lovely feature at an entrance or gateway. It is not only popular for its narrow form, but also the beautiful lobed foliage which turns from dark-red to rich purple in the summer and then to bright red again in the autumn.
Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’ truly lives up to its name, standing proudly and boldly upright, as if guarding the surrounding area. Ideal for tough positions, this columnar tree is tolerant of pollution and will do well in most soils. Exposed coastal positions are no problem for this handsome Norway maple tree.
AKA Purple Norway maple, Upright Norway Maple, Columnar Maple tree, Norway Maple Crimson Sentry
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
