The Crimson Sentry Maple Tree has purple foliage. Leaves turn golden in Autumn. Great Maple for a feature tree. Grows approx. 7m x 4m.
Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’ (Crimson Sentry Norway Maple)
General Information
- Common Name: Crimson Sentry Norway Maple
- Botanical Name: Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’
- Family: Sapindaceae
- Origin: Cultivar of the Norway maple (Acer platanoides), native to Europe and western Asia
Description
- Growth Habit: A compact, upright, columnar tree with a dense canopy.
- Size:
- Typically grows 5–7 m (16–23 ft) tall
- Spread is around 3–4 m (10–13 ft) wide, making it a great choice for small spaces.
- Lifespan: Can live 60–100 years with proper care.
Key Features
- Foliage:
- Spring: Deep reddish-purple emerging leaves.
- Summer: Dark burgundy to purple foliage that holds its color well.
- Autumn: Brilliant golden-bronze to orange-red fall color.
- Flowers:
- Small clusters of yellow-green flowers in early spring before leaf emergence.
- The flowers contrast beautifully with the dark foliage.
- Bark:
- Gray-brown, relatively smooth when young, developing shallow ridges with age.
- Fruits:
- Produces samaras (winged seeds), typical of Norway maples. However, it is a lower-seed-producing variety compared to the standard Acer platanoides.
Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Full sun enhances its deep purple foliage color.
- Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Prefers well-drained, moist soil but is drought-tolerant once established.
- Watering: Moderate watering; prefers even moisture but can tolerate occasional dry spells.
- Humidity: Adaptable to different humidity levels.
Care and Maintenance
- Pruning:
- Minimal pruning is required.
- Best pruned in late summer or early autumn to avoid excessive sap bleeding.
- Can be pruned for shape or to remove damaged/dead branches.
- Mulching: A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and protect roots.
- Fertilization: Benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Pests & Diseases:
- Pests: Susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites.
- Diseases: Can be affected by tar spot, verticillium wilt, and leaf scorch. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent issues.
Landscape Uses
- Urban & Street Tree: Its compact size and upright growth make it ideal for narrow spaces, sidewalks, and urban landscapes.
- Ornamental Feature: Adds dramatic color contrast in gardens and landscapes.
- Privacy Screen: Works well in rows for screening or hedging.
- Small Gardens: A great alternative to larger maples for smaller spaces.
Propagation
- Typically propagated through grafting to maintain its unique characteristics.
Crimson Sentry
Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’ is a striking, columnar maple with deep purple foliage, making it a great choice for compact spaces and urban landscapes. It is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and offers year-round ornamental value. This tree is perfect for adding height, structure, and bold color to any garden or streetscape.
