Norway Maple Royal Red

A deep red, American-bred variety of the Norway maple, Acer platanoides ‘Royal Red’ is a medium-sized deciduous tree with leathery, maroon-purple, five-lobed leaves tinged green underneath; the leaves turn yellow-brown in autumn. Small clusters of inconspicuous reddish-yellow flowers in spring ripen to deep burgundy double-winged samaras (keys) in autumn. A vigorous tree with a spreading, conical shape, it makes an excellent specimen tree and is easy to grow. Very hardy and wind-resistant, it nevertheless benefits from a semi-sheltered position to prevent damage to the young leaves. A good choice for colder areas and city pollution. Said to be slightly smaller than Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’.

Site: Semi-sheltered
Soil: Any moist but well drained, fertile soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of Interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 35-40ft (10.5-12m) in 20 years  Spread: Up to 25ft (7.5m)