Acer palmatum Dissectum Atropurpureum - Japanese Maple

The Acer palmatum Dissectum Atropurpureum is one of the best-known and most widely planted Japanese maples, not only because of its beauty but also its adaptability. This deciduous small tree has a natural, graceful silhouette, with delicate red-purple foliage and vibrant autumn colors. Whether planted in the ground or in a large pot, this small maple tree will add a unique touch to semi-shaded areas of the garden or terrace. 

Acer palmatum Dissectum is native to eastern China, Korea, and Japan. Like all maples, it belongs to the Aceraceae family. The 'Atropurpureum' cultivar is distinguished by its purple-red foliage from spring to summer. It is a small, hardy, slow-growing tree with a single brown trunk supporting a spreading and airy, branching crown. In time, it will reach a height of 2 to 4 m (6 ft 7 inches to 13 ft) with an approximate spread of 2 m (6 ft 7 in), depending on the growing conditions. Its deciduous foliage consists of palmate leaves 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3.1 in) in length, deeply divided into 5 to 7 lanceolate lobes, finely serrated along the edges. The reddish flowers grouped in small clusters in April are insignificant, but the red, curved, winged fruits, 3 cm (1.2 in) in length, are interesting from September onwards. Before falling in autumn, the foliage takes on beautiful shades of red and orange.

The Acer palmatum Dissectum Atropurpureum will be in its element when planted as a specimen on a shaded lawn or in ericaceous beds alongside Azaleas, Pieris, Rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and heathers. It can also make a magnificent bonsai. Despite its fragile appearance, this small tree is hardy, as evidenced by some specimens that have been grown in large pots without much care for many years. All it needs is light, well-drained soil that is not too poor, acidic to neutral if possible, and occasional watering during dry spells. Diseases such as Verticillium (caused by a fungus) are more likely to develop in constantly moist soils than in occasionally dry ones. Note that this variety does well in hot climates as long as the tree is positioned away from the extremes of direct sun and sheltered from wind.