How to Grow Crimson King Maple
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Crimson King Maple
Acer platanoides 'Crimson King'
treeCrimson King is a striking cultivar of Norway maple known for its deep burgundy-red foliage that persists throughout the growing season. This deciduous tree grows to 40-50 feet tall with a dense, rounded crown, making it popular as an ornamental specimen or shade tree. The distinctive dark red leaves and eventual golden-red fall color create dramatic visual impact in landscapes.
When should you plant Crimson King Maple in your zone?
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Example Crimson King Maple timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crimson King Maple
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Crimson King Maple
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crimson King Maple dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in zones 4-7
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Get my Crimson King Maple timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung sapling with thin trunk and developing branch structure; foliage reddish-green to deep red depending on light exposure
Stake if needed for support; water regularly (1-2 inches per week); prune competing leaders to establish single main trunk
Mature Vegetative
5-15 yearsEstablished tree with full, dense canopy and characteristic deep burgundy foliage; reaches near-full height
Reduce watering frequency once fully established; prune only to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches; maintain shape as needed
Peak Ornamental
15+ yearsFull-sized mature specimen with maximum foliage color intensity; dense shade-producing canopy
Minimal pruning needed; monitor for pest issues; keep trunk clear of debris; maintain consistent soil moisture during drought
Fall Transition
4-6 weeksFoliage transitions from deep burgundy to golden-red to reddish-brown before drop; bare branches reveal winter structure
Minimal intervention; clean up fallen leaves; monitor for disease; prune in late winter while dormant if needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like ladybugs; systemic insecticides if severe
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Prune heavily infested branches; apply dormant oil spray in late winter; insecticidal soap in growing season
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Prune infected branches back to healthy wood; improve drainage; water at soil level; no chemical cure; remove severely affected trees
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Remove fallen leaves to reduce spore source; prune to improve air circulation; fungicide spray in spring if historically problematic
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Hand-pick early in morning; use pheromone traps away from tree; apply neem oil; systemic insecticide if population is high
Uses
Shade and Windbreak
HouseholdCrimson King provides excellent dense shade for outdoor living spaces and acts as a natural windbreak. Its broad canopy can reduce nearby building temperatures and energy costs. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe tree provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife. Flowering helicopters produce seeds that feed birds and small mammals in fall and winter. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
CraftThe distinctive deep burgundy foliage makes it an outstanding specimen tree for creating visual focal points and dramatic color contrast in landscapes. [source]
Traditional Medicine Uses
MedicinalLike other Acer species, Norway maple has been used in traditional medicine, though evidence is limited. Historically used for liver and spleen support. [source]
Street and Park Tree
HouseholdWidely planted in urban and suburban settings as a street tree for its hardiness, disease resistance, and consistent color. Tolerates air pollution and compacted soils. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not applicable; ornamental tree. Prune in late winter or early spring while dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Avoid major pruning during growing season to prevent stress.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crimson King is a patented cultivar (Plant Patent #735) introduced in 1947, selected for its consistent deep red foliage color that doesn't fade to green in summer like some red maples.
- 🌱 Despite its European origin, Crimson King has become invasive in some North American woodlands, spreading through prolific seed production and outcompeting native tree species.
- 🌱 The burgundy coloration is due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments in the leaves, which provide UV protection and may serve as a chemical defense against herbivores.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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