One popular tree that stands out for its striking purple leaves in summer is the ‘Crimson King’ Norway maple (Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’). This magnificent tree can reach heights of up to 40 feet (12 m.), creating a commanding presence in any landscape. What sets this tree apart is its ability to retain its rich purple-crimson color throughout the summer months, making it a standout choice for those seeking a vibrant and colorful addition to their garden.
The ‘Crimson King’ Norway maple is highly adaptable and can grow well in a variety of soil types, even in poor soil conditions. This resilience is particularly useful for urban areas where pollution and poor soil quality may be a concern. Whether you have clay, sandy, or loamy soil, this tree can thrive and bring a burst of color to your surroundings.
When it comes to personal experiences, I have had the pleasure of planting several ‘Crimson King’ Norway maples in my own garden. The deep purple leaves add a touch of elegance and drama to the landscape, creating a focal point that draws the eye. I have found that the tree’s ability to tolerate urban conditions, such as pollution and compacted soil, has been a significant advantage in my city setting.
In addition to the ‘Crimson King’ Norway maple, there are a few other trees that also display purple leaves during the summer months. These include:
1. Purple-leaf sand cherry (Prunus x cistena): This small tree or shrub boasts deep purple foliage throughout the summer, providing a lovely contrast to greenery in the garden. It produces delicate pink flowers in spring, adding further beauty to its appearance.
2. Purple smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria): Known for its unique and feathery purple foliage, the purple smoke tree is a captivating addition to any landscape. In late spring or early summer, it produces fluffy, cloud-like clusters of pinkish-purple flowers, creating a mesmerizing effect.
3. Purple-leaf plum (Prunus cerasifera): This tree offers stunning burgundy-purple leaves that hold their color well into the summer months. It produces small pink or white flowers in early spring, adding an extra touch of beauty to its striking appearance.
It is important to note that while these trees offer beautiful purple foliage, they may have specific care requirements and considerations. Proper planting, watering, and maintenance techniques are crucial to ensure their health and longevity. Consulting with a local gardening professional or researching specific care guidelines for each tree variety is recommended to ensure success.
If you are looking to add a touch of purple to your garden during the summer months, the ‘Crimson King’ Norway maple is an excellent choice. Its deep purple-crimson leaves and ability to thrive in various soil conditions make it a standout tree. Additionally, other trees such as the purple-leaf sand cherry, purple smoke tree, and purple-leaf plum offer unique and stunning purple foliage options to enhance your landscape.
