How big does Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' grow?

About 2.5 m × 1.8 m after ten years (height × width).

Is Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' hardy?

Hardy down to -20 °C (USDA zone 6, RHS H6). In the colder parts of the country (Carinthia, Salzburg, Tyrol) it may not survive winter without protection.

How far from the house should Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' be planted?

Plant it at least 1.5 m from buildings. Keep it at least 1.5 m from paving.

When does Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' flower?

Flowering: April–May, red, purple.

How much water does Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' need?

Water need: medium. Drought tolerance: low.

How much does Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' cost?

It sells for roughly €11 to €350 in local shops, depending on size.

Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum'

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'

Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' (Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum') is a small tree that reaches 2.5 m × 1.8 m after ten years. Light: full sun, part shade. Hardy down to -20 °C. Drought tolerance: low. Sold in local shops from about €11.

Illustration of Japanese maple 'Atropurpureum' — An illustration of the typical shape of the mature plant, not a photo.

What it's good for, and what it isn't

Its burgundy, palm-shaped leaves and bright red autumn colour make it a useful garden focal point, and it can also grow in a large container. Choose a sheltered position with afternoon shade and keep the soil evenly moist without waterlogging. Plants sold under this name vary in eventual size and summer colour, with some developing bronze or greenish leaves.

Watch out for

In Central Europe's hot, dry summers, strong afternoon sun and drying winds can scorch the foliage; watering is needed during drought. Late spring frosts can damage new growth. Waterlogging causes poor performance, and the tree is susceptible to Verticillium wilt. Strongly calcareous soil is not a dependable choice, as sources disagree about soil tolerance. Seedlings may appear nearby and can be removed when unwanted.

Key facts

Light: Full sun, Part shade
Water need: Medium
Care: Medium
Size after 10 years: 2.5 m × 1.8 m
Hardiness: down to -20 °C
Foliage: Deciduous
Flowering: J F M A M J J A S O N D April–May, red, purple

Group	Small tree
Light	Full sun, Part shade
Size after 10 years	2.5 m × 1.8 m
Ultimate size	4–8 m × 4–8 m
Hardiness	down to -20 °C (USDA 6, RHS H6)
Soil	Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Acidic
Foliage	Deciduous
Flowering	April–May, red, purple
Water need	Medium
Drought tolerance	Low
Maintenance	Medium
Root aggressiveness	Low
Suckering	no
Spreading	Medium
Distance from buildings	at least 1.5 m
Distance from paving	at least 1.5 m
Litter	not typical
Planting distance	500 cm
For dogs	no data
For cats	no data
For children	Non-toxic (uncertain)
Typical price	from about €11

Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor.

Sizes and prices available

The same plant is sold as a small pot and as a specimen several metres tall, and the price follows. Prices are rounded and for guidance only.

Size	Typical price
25-30 cm	approx. €11
80-100 cm	approx. €83
100-125 cm	approx. €92
140-160 cm	approx. €98
150-175 cm	approx. €210
175-200 cm	approx. €350
size not stated	approx. €25

Frequently asked questions

Data updated: October 13, 2026 · How our data is made

Appears in these lists

Small ornamental trees Small trees for beside paths and paving Plants that give shade Plants for containers Plants with autumn colour