Spaethii Sycamore

Acer pseudoplatanus 'Spaethii' is a dark-foliaged variety of the Sycamore tree, Acer pseudoplatanus. This Acer features bright green foliage on the upper surface and a deep purple-red colour on the lower surface. It provides a spectacular display from spring to autumn, looking particularly attractive in summer when the foliage of other ornamental trees begins to fade a little. To finish off the display of foliage, in autumn, it turns to a further orangey red before falling.

This unique cultivar is also known as Acer pseudoplatanus 'Atropurpureum.' Acer pseudoplatanus 'Spaethii' inherits all the robust and vigorous qualities of its parent, Acer pseudoplatanus, while also providing stunning ornamental value with its bright and vibrant foliage.

This tree thrives in a variety of soil conditions and is particularly well-suited for very windy, exposed, and coastal environments. The Sycamore is one of the few trees that can tolerate salt-laden winds, and this variety also possesses that remarkable trait. Since there are only a limited number of tree varieties that can withstand coastal conditions, this tree is an excellent choice for landscaping in exposed or coastal locations. Additionally, it offers unique ornamental foliage, making it a great alternative to the handful of other salt-tolerant trees.

A widely underrated medium to large-sized, rounded-headed tree which needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. In the industry, the Sycamore tree has acquired a slightly tarnished reputation for being a weed, largely owing to its significant vigour and penchant for self-seeding. However, it is foolish to discount this dramatically coloured cultivar, especially in schemes situated in exposed or coastal areas where species choice is limited. It is all about the ‘Right tree in the Right Place’ after all.

As a word of caution, recent research has identified the foliage and samara of Sycamore as poisonous to horses, and therefore, they should not be planted in and around paddocks.

Mature height: 17-22m

Common names

Spaethii Sycamore

Height of tree

17-22m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Foliage Colour

Green, Red/Purple

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Parkland, Coastal

Genus

Acer