Japanese maple, Atropurpureum - 8 seeds

Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ is one of the classic and most popular Japanese maple cultivars, prized for its rich purple foliage that intensifies in autumn. It grows slowly into a small tree or large shrub, typically reaching 3-5 m, with a compact, graceful habit.

It prefers moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils and partial shade or gentle sunlight. Perfect for ornamental gardens, small spaces, containers and landscape designs inspired by Japanese aesthetics. It offers outstanding colour throughout the growing season and performs best in temperate climates.

How to sow Acer palmatum ‘Atropurpureum’ seeds

To germinate this Japanese maple, follow a two-stage stratification process. Start by soaking the seeds for 24 hours in lukewarm water. Then place them in slightly moist vermiculite and keep them for about 8-10 weeks in a warm phase (15-20 °C). Next, move them into a cold phase of 10-14 weeks at 3-5 °C.

After this period, sow the seeds in a light, slightly acidic and evenly moist substrate, avoiding waterlogging. Germination usually appears gradually over the following months, with many seeds naturally sprouting in spring.