Key features
Final size8 x 5 metres in 20 years
FoliageLobed purple and red leaves with autumn colour (deciduous)
FlowersClusters of small, yellow flowers emerging in spring
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Acer platanoides ‘Royal Red’ is a stunning Norway Maple tree admired for its colourful foliage that changes throughout the seasons. Its five-lobed leaves emerge a bright red colour when they are young, later darkening to purple/deep red in the summer. In autumn, they take on beautiful fiery shades of orange and yellow. Bright, lemon-yellow flowers appear in the spring, providing a dramatic contrast against the red foliage.
Acer ‘Royal Red’ is a fast-growing tree, similar to the purple-leaved ‘Crimson King’ but with a slightly more upright habit, which will develop a wide, conical crown. Tolerant of most moist well-draining soil types, as well as urban pollution and drought (once established), with a good wind resistance, this beautiful tree is a solid choice for most gardens.
Ideal for adding boldness and drama to a landscape, plant ‘Royal Red’ in a full sun position for the most vibrant foliage, as a standalone specimen or lining an avenue. Will reach an approximate height and spread of 8 x 5 metres in 20 years but will continue to grow in maturity.
AKA Norway Maple Royal Red
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.
