Crimson King Norway Maple
Acer platancides 'Crimson King' · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
'Crimson King'
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3-7; highly adaptable to various soil types including clay and urban pollution.
About This Tree
A medium-sized deciduous tree with a dense, symmetrical, rounded crown and upright-branching form. Known for its striking deep maroon-to-purple foliage that lasts throughout the entire growing season. It grows at a moderate rate and provides heavy shade.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite arrangement with 5-7 lobes and sharply pointed teeth (palmate). Leaves are large, 4-7 inches wide, with a deep crimson/purple color in spring and summer, turning brownish-bronze in fall. Petioles exude milky sap when broken.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown to dark gray; relatively smooth when young, developing shallow, tightly furrowed ridges with age in a distinctive criss-cross or diamond-like pattern.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and Western Asia; cultivar developed in the United States and common in North America.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring with deep purple foliage; flowers in clusters (corymbs) of greenish-yellow blossoms before/during leafing; enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires Full Sun for best foliage color but tolerates Partial Shade. Preferences include moist, well-drained soils; established trees have moderate drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Mature height of 35-50 feet and spread of 25-40 feet. Growth rate is moderate (approx. 1 foot per year). Lifespan typically ranges from 60 to 150 years.
Special Characteristics
Prized for its consistent anthocyanin pigment causing the deep purple leaf color. It is highly urban-tolerant but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and verticillium wilt. Its dense shade inhibits lawn growth underneath.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites for songbirds and early-season nectar for bees and other pollinators via its flowers. However, it is considered invasive in several North American regions as its seeds (samaras) spread easily into native woodland borders.