Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum'

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Low

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Medium

A stunning variation of the Acer cappadocicum, the Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum’ hails from the Cappadocia region in central Turkey and was introduced to the UK in the 1830’s. Despite its early introduction, it remains relatively uncommon, making it a rare find for discerning gardeners. Its exceptional aesthetic appeal is highlighted by its elegant form and vibrant foliage, offering year-round visual interest.

The most notable feature of Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum’ is its striking foliage. The leaves are palmate with 5-7 lobes, arranged in opposite pairs. Starting as a deep blood red in spring, the leaves transition to a fresh, rich green through late spring and early summer. As autumn arrives, the tree’s foliage undergoes a dramatic transformation, showcasing a breath-taking display of vivid reds, oranges, golds, and yellows. This spectacular autumnal display brings warmth and beauty to any landscape and reaffirms its appeal with a renewed burst of colour each spring.

In addition to its vibrant leaves, the tree features a lovely mahogany coloured bark that catches the sunlight beautifully, adding a refined touch to its overall appearance. During spring, it produces subtle yellow-green flowers, which, while not particularly showy, add a delicate charm to the tree. Following the flowering periods, small winged fruits develop in pairs, providing further interest.

Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum’ thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade, though it is adaptable to various light conditions. It is tolerance of different soil types, including clay and loam, and exhibits hardiness to cold climates along with resistance to pests and diseases. This cultivars resilience and captivating features make it an outstanding choice for enhancing any landscape.

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Size

Medium

10m high x 6m wide after 25 years

Environment

Thrives best in sheltered locations, where it is protected from strong winds. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for planting in parks, along avenues, and within large gardens. Ideal for creating serene, attractive landscapes.

Canopy

Features a rounded to broadly oval crown that provides a pleasing silhouette. The tree has a sturdy trunk and a dense symmetrical branching structure, creating a balanced and elegant appearance. The canopy is full and lush, with evenly spaced branches that contribute to its overall harmonious shape.

Foliage

The foliage is a striking feature of this tree, with is palmate leaves that are typically arranged opposite each other along the branches. Each leaf is characterised by 5-7 distinct lobes, giving it a bold decorative appearance. When young, the leaves showcase a vibrant blood red colour that gradually transitions to a rich green during the summer months. As autumn approaches, the foliage transforms to a brilliant array of vivid reds, oranges, yellows and golds, creating a spectacular autumnal display.

Bark

The bark displays a smooth texture with light fissures, featuring a subtle mahogany hue that catches the sunlight beautifully. This rich, warm colour provides a striking contrast to the tree's vibrant foliage. The lightly fissured surface adds a touch of natural complexity, creating a pleasing interplay of light and shadow as the sun interacts with the bark.

Resilience

A resilient tree that adapts well to a variety of soil conditions, thriving in well-drained soils, including damp, loamy, and sandy types. However, it should be avoided in compacted areas, where root development can be hindered. The tree benefits from some protection against harsh winds, which helps maintain its overall healthy and structural integrity. For the most vibrant leaf colouration, plant in full sun where it can fully showcase its rich hues throughout the seasons.

FAQs

What are the ideal growing conditions for Acer cappadocicum 'Rubrum'?

The tree thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and loam, and can tolerate various light conditions. For the best leaf colour, it should be planted in full sun.

When does Acer cappadocicum 'Rubrum' produce flowers and fruits?

The tree produces inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers in spring. Following the flowering period, small winged fruits develop in pairs, adding visual interest to the tree.

How does Acer cappadocicum 'Rubrum' compare to other maple varieties?

Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum’ is unique for its vibrant autumn colours, elegant form, and mahogany bark. It offers a different aesthetic compared to other maples, such as the more commonly seen Japanese maples, making it a distinctive choice for enhancing landscapes.