Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Atropurpureum'
tree

Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Atropurpureum'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

96 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Japan, Korea, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Atropurpureum' is a weeping, laceleaf maple with finely dissected, deep red-purple foliage that may turn bronze-green in summer in hot climates before turning brilliant scarlet in fall. This cultivar has a graceful, weeping growth habit that makes it particularly attractive in gardens.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAcer palmatum Dissectum Atropurpureum offers stunning, finely dissected purple foliage, adding elegance to any garden.
Practical UsesProvides shade and creates a tranquil focal point in landscape designs.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinators and contributes to biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck young seedlings into well-draining, acidic soil in partial shade for best growth.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root development over 6 weeks.
  3. Transplant in early spring when the soil warms and the risk of frost has passed.
  4. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, acid-loving plant fertilizer every spring for vibrant foliage.
  6. Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.

Pro Tip

Provide dappled shade and consistently moist, acidic soil for optimal leaf coloration and health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
  • Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove deadwood
  • Feed with an acid-loving fertilizer each spring

Don't

  • Avoid planting in full sun, which can scorch leaves
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid heavy pruning during summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant specimen in Japanese gardensShade tree with striking purple foliageAccent plant in woodland settings

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Azaleas Japanese maples Hydrangeas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple questions

What zones can Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple grow in?

Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple bloom?

Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple need full sun?

Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

Grow Purple Cutleaf Japanese Maple with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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