Extension Communications
Extension 4-H Youth Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3630
(515) 294-9915
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Extension Communications |
11-4-04
Contacts:
Ed Moran, Reiman Gardens, (515) 294-2710, edmoran@iastate.edu
Del Marks, Continuing Education and Communication Services, (515) 294-9807,
delmarks@iastate.edu
Reiman's Pick for the week of Nov. 1, 2004
The Purplebloom Maple: An Exciting Addition to the Midwest Landscape
By Ed Moran
Reiman Gardens
Iowa State University
The purplebloom maple (Acer pseudosieboldianum), native to Korea, is a perfect ornamental tree for the Midwest landscape. This maple species is similar in growth habit and appearance to its relatives, the less cold-hardy Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) and fullmoon maples (Acer japonicum). Additionally, the purplebloom allows gardeners to reliably plant a smaller decorative maple without the risk of winter damage. It makes a great addition to the landscape as a large focal point in a mixed border or as a small lawn specimen.
The purplebloom maple assumes an upright growth habit and grows 8-12 inches per year with a mature height of approximately thirty feet. The lobed fan-shaped foliage is as equally spectacular as other small ornamental maples. During spring and summer months, the foliage is dark blue-green with burgundy undertones. When fall arrives, burgundy and gold streaks cover the leaves until they succumb to the first hard frost. Unlike its relatives, purplebloom maples can withstand temperatures up to -20°F, categorizing it in USDA Plant Hardiness zone 4.
You may view a purplebloom maple exhibiting vibrant fall color at Iowa State University's Reiman Gardens in the Town and Country Garden.
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Editors: A color photo, suitable for publication, is available at right. Click on the thumbnail photo to go to the fullsized photo. The picture's fullsize photo is 328K. Caption: Purplebloom maple makes a great addition to the landscape as a large focal point in a mixed border or as a small lawn specimen. |
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