If you’re anything like me, fall is a season that stirs a special kind of excitement. There’s something about the way the leaves change color, painting the world in hues of red, orange, and gold. But let’s not forget the more unexpected yet equally enchanting color—purple! There are few things as captivating as a maple tree with deep, rich purple leaves, especially when the sun catches them just right. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or add a unique twist to your autumn garden, these maples with purple leaves will not disappoint.
And let’s be honest: choosing the right tree can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re worried about things like invasiveness, suitability for your climate, or even how much work is involved in caring for them. I get it! But don’t worry—I’ve done the digging for you (quite literally) and found seven fantastic maple varieties that will bring that stunning purple hue to your autumn landscape. From the common to the rare, let’s dive into these beauties and discover which one will be your garden’s new star.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
Japanese Maple is a showstopper in any garden, and its purple-leaved varieties, like ‘Bloodgood’ or ‘Emperor I,’ are no exception. Native to Japan, Korea, and China, this tree is beloved for its delicate, lacy leaves that emerge bright red in spring, deepen to a rich burgundy-purple in summer, and often hold that color through fall. These small to medium-sized trees are perfect for creating a focal point in your garden, especially in a shaded or partially shaded area where their deep hues can stand out.
Japanese Maples also make great homes for many garden creatures! They provide shelter for small birds, like chickadees and wrens, who may nest in their branches. And, the fallen leaves create a natural mulch that attracts earthworms and beneficial insects, enriching your soil and boosting your garden’s ecosystem. While Japanese Maples are not invasive, they do prefer well-drained soils and can be sensitive to extreme weather conditions, so be sure to plant them in a spot where they’re protected from harsh winds.
Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)
The Norway Maple might be a controversial choice for some, but there’s no denying its impact when it comes to purple foliage. Varieties like ‘Crimson King’ are prized for their deep, almost black-purple leaves that turn a rich, warm maroon in the fall. Originally from Europe, this tree has made its way across North America, where it thrives in a wide range of soils and conditions. Its adaptability is both a blessing and a curse—while it’s incredibly hardy and low-maintenance, it is considered invasive in many areas due to its ability to outcompete native species.
That said, if you’re in a region where Norway Maple is not invasive, it can be a wonderful addition to your garden. It provides ample shade in the summer and its dense canopy can be a nesting site for various birds, such as robins and cardinals. Additionally, its seeds are a food source for squirrels and other small mammals. If you do choose this tree, keep an eye on it and manage any seedlings that may pop up to prevent it from spreading beyond your garden.
Red Maple (Acer rubrum ‘Schlesingeri’)
The Red Maple, particularly the ‘Schlesingeri’ cultivar, is a fantastic choice if you want a tree that surprises with a deep, wine-purple hue in the fall. Native to eastern and central North America, this maple is known for its adaptability, growing in a wide range of soil types and conditions—from wet, swampy areas to drier upland sites. The leaves of ‘Schlesingeri’ start off green in spring and summer but transform into a dark, velvety purple as the weather cools. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a medium-sized shade tree that offers both color and resilience.
Red Maples are also a boon for wildlife. They provide nesting sites for birds, like orioles and warblers, and their seeds are a favorite of squirrels and chipmunks. The tree also plays host to various butterflies and moths, which lay their eggs on the leaves. It’s not considered invasive, and it’s relatively low-maintenance—just give it plenty of water in the first few years to help establish a strong root system.
Acer ‘Purple Blow’ Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Purpureum’)
The Purple Blow Maple, or ‘Purpureum,’ is a lesser-known but equally spectacular tree that deserves a place in more gardens! A variety of the Sycamore Maple, it hails from Europe and is prized for its dark purple leaves that add a sense of depth and drama to any landscape. The foliage emerges in spring with a hint of bronze and matures to a rich purple, creating a stunning contrast against the lighter undersides of the leaves, which are often a creamy white or green.
While not native to North America, the Purple Blow Maple isn’t typically considered invasive. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, and it can tolerate a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden types. Birds like finches and sparrows are often attracted to this tree, as they find its dense canopy perfect for nesting. Plus, the seeds, known as samaras, provide a food source for squirrels and other small mammals, adding an extra layer of wildlife interest.
Tricolor Maple (Acer davidii ‘Viper’)
The Tricolor Maple, or ‘Viper,’ is another stunning option for those looking for purple hues in fall. This tree, native to China, offers a unique combination of purple, pink, and white variegation throughout its leaves. The color intensifies in the fall, bringing out deeper purples and reds that make it a standout specimen in any garden. It’s a medium-sized tree, reaching about 20-30 feet tall, making it ideal for smaller gardens or as a focal point in a larger landscape.
Tricolor Maple is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a tree that provides interest year-round. Its bark is also notable, with smooth green striations that catch the light beautifully. While it’s not considered invasive, this tree does appreciate a bit more pampering—make sure it’s planted in well-drained soil and provide it with adequate water during dry periods. The tree is also a great way to attract pollinators in the spring and early summer, thanks to its small, fragrant flowers.
Amur Maple (Acer ginnala ‘Flame’)
Last but certainly not least is the Amur Maple, particularly the ‘Flame’ variety, which boasts deep purple foliage that turns a stunning scarlet-red to purple in the fall. Originally from northeastern Asia, this smaller maple is perfect for compact spaces or even as a container tree. It’s incredibly hardy, capable of withstanding cold temperatures and less-than-ideal soils, which makes it a versatile choice for many different garden environments.
While it has many benefits, it’s important to mention that Amur Maple can be considered invasive in some regions, particularly in parts of the Midwest and Northeast U.S. Make sure to check local guidelines before planting. If it’s suitable for your area, you’ll enjoy a tree that provides nectar for bees in the spring and stunning color in the fall. It’s also a favorite of small birds, who find its dense foliage perfect for hiding from predators.
Each of these maples offers something special, whether it’s the depth of its purple hues or the added benefit of attracting wildlife. I hope you find a new favorite among these choices to bring a bit of extra magic to your autumn landscape!
