Crimson King Maple (Norway Maple)
Acer platanoides 'Crimson King' · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae (Soapberry Family)
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
'Crimson King' - A popular cultivar known for its deep purple-maroon foliage that persists throughout the entire growing season.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-7; highly adaptable to various soil types and urban conditions but sensitive to extreme heat in southern zones.
About This Tree
A dense, symmetrical, oval to rounded shade tree with a medium to fast growth rate. It is characterized by its large, dramatic dark foliage that provides heavy shade. It typically forms a straight trunk with a wide, spreading canopy.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite arrangement, 4-7 inches across with 5 distinct pointed lobes. Leaves are a deep maroon-purple color throughout the summer; margins are sparsely toothed; leaf stems (petioles) exude a milky white sap when broken.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown in color; remains relatively smooth on young trees but develops shallow, interlacing furrows and ridges as it matures, creating a tight, structured pattern.
Growing Information
Origin Region
The parent species is native to Europe and Western Asia; 'Crimson King' was introduced in the mid-20th century in Belgium.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring with maroon flowers; foliage remains dark purple through summer; turns dynamic shades of bronze or brown in fall before dropping during winter dormancy.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (required for best purple leaf color); medium water needs; moderately drought tolerant once established but prefers well-drained, moist soils.
Mature Size
Reaches 35-50 feet in height with a spread of 25-40 feet; moderate growth rate (approx. 1 foot per year); can live 60-150 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for its unique foliage color that contrasts with green landscapes; high tolerance to city pollution and salt; however, in some parts of North America, the parent species is considered invasive due to prolific seed production.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites and cover for songbirds; early spring flowers offer nectar to pollinators like bees; seeds (samaras) are eaten by squirrels and some birds; dense canopy provides significant urban cooling effect.