Acer platanoides 'Royal Red'

Royal Red Maple

Acer platanoides ‘Royal Red’ is a bold purple-leaved Norway maple selected for its rich, glossy maroon foliage and dependable performance in urban landscapes. Leaves emerge deep royal purple in spring, hold their dark color well through summer (better than many purple maples), and shift to bronze-red tones in fall.

The tree develops a broad, rounded crown with sturdy branching and a strong central leader, creating dense shade and a commanding presence. Compared to ‘Crimson King,’ ‘Royal Red’ typically offers glossier leaves and more consistent summer color.

‘Royal Red’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to a wide range of soils, including clay and compacted urban soils, provided drainage is adequate. It tolerates heat, wind, pollution, and road salt and is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7.

Mature size:



Width: 40–50 ft



Height: 40–55 ft



Ideal for shade trees, streets, parks, campuses, and large residential landscapes, Acer platanoides ‘Royal Red’ is valued for its intense foliage color, durability, and strong architectural form.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

40-55'

Width

40-50'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Purple

Fall color

Dark Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade

Shape

Oval/Rounded

Bark

Fissured

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

15'

10-year width

15'