Acer truncatum x platanoides 'Crimson Sunset'

Crimson Sunset Maple / Crimson Sunset Acer

Botanical Name: Acer truncatum × platanoides ‘Crimson Sunset’
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Hybrid selection (Asian × European maple parentage)
Plant Type: Deciduous ornamental tree

Overview

Acer ‘Crimson Sunset’ is a striking ornamental maple selected for its rich burgundy foliage, compact upright form and excellent tolerance of heat compared to many traditional maples. Well suited to Adelaide’s Mediterranean climate, it delivers strong colour contrast from spring through autumn, with glossy deep red to purple leaves that hold well through summer and finish with fiery crimson tones in autumn. Its neat, pyramidal habit makes it ideal for feature planting, avenues, streetscapes and medium-sized gardens where reliable shade and seasonal colour are desired. Hardy, adaptable and tidy, it performs reliably across South Australia when given well-drained soil and regular water during establishment.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 6–8 m H × 3–4 m W (upright to narrowly rounded canopy)
• Growth Rate: 30–50 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Deciduous; glossy deep burgundy to purple-red leaves through spring and summer, intensifying to bright crimson-red in autumn
• Flowers: Small yellow-green spring flowers, not showy and largely hidden by foliage
  
• Fragrance: Not fragrant — the flowers have no noticeable scent and the foliage is not aromatic
• Seasonal Interest: Bold red foliage from spring to autumn, spectacular autumn colour, and a clean winter silhouette once leaves fall
• Wildlife Value: Provides shade and shelter; flowers offer light early-season interest for insects
• Tolerance: Moderate drought tolerance once established; good heat tolerance for a maple; wind tolerant; frost hardy; not suited to exposed coastal salt spray
• Planting Density: Feature or specimen planting: 1 tree per 9–16 m² (3–4 m apart). Avenue planting: 3–4 m spacing
• Pet Friendly: Generally regarded as non-toxic

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to light part shade; strongest foliage colour develops in full sun
• Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates clay-loam if drainage is good; avoid prolonged waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks per week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; occasional watering in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Low; mulch annually to keep roots cool; minimal pruning required aside from removal of dead or crossing branches in winter
• Lifespan: 30–50+ years
• Climate Zones: Best suited to temperate and Mediterranean South Australia — Adelaide Plains, foothills, cooler inland suburbs
• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline; tolerates mildly acidic soils

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Feature tree for bold colour contrast in modern and traditional gardens
• Avenue or driveway planting for strong architectural rhythm
• Shade tree for lawns, courtyards and outdoor living areas
• Contrast planting with silver, green or evergreen shrubs
• Streetscapes and medium-sized gardens needing reliable form and colour

Why You Will Love It

‘Crimson Sunset’ offers the drama of deep red foliage with better heat tolerance than many maples, making it a standout choice for Adelaide gardens. With its tidy shape, vibrant colour and low-maintenance nature, it delivers year-round structure and outstanding seasonal interest without demanding care.