Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’ Tree

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Medium

Introduced in 1947 by Gulfstream Nursery, USA, after being selected in Belgium in 1937. Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’ stands as a large tree that is deeply influenced by its environment. When it is planted in open, exposed areas, it tends to develop a broad, expansive canopy. Ideal for standalone placement and will thrive in full summer sun and offer a refreshing shade underneath.

Its large leaves, spanning up to 15cm, paint the surroundings with deep crimson and plum tones throughout spring and summer. As the seasons shift, the trees foliage transforms into vibrant oranges and warm browns, maintaining its allure even into winter.

To craft captivating summer landscapes, consider planting ‘Crimson King’ as a backdrop with the contrasting Acer platanoides ‘Princeton Gold’. The golden and light olive hues of the ‘Pringo’ beautifully offset the rich purples of the ‘Crimson King’.

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Size

Medium

9m high x 6m wide after 25 years

Environment

Its tolerance to urban pollution and adaptability to poor soils make it an excellent choice for street and avenue planting.

Canopy

Wide, dark and dense crown.

Foliage

Typical maple shaped leaves but burst open in deep damson shades of crimson throughout the spring and summer. A fantastic feature on any landscape.

Flowers

Clusters of saffron shaded flowers with 5 delicate petals emerge on the bare branches in early spring.

Resilience

Tolerant of urban pollution and favours poor compacted soils, especially chalk. It will thrive anyway but doesn't fare well in waterlogged or peaty sites so will require good drainage.

Wildlife

Flowers are a valuable source of pollen and nectar for bees.

Available As:

Semi-Mature