Acer Palmatum 'Atropurpureum' ( Red Japanese Maple ) questions

Discussion in 'Maples' started by Imperfect Ending, Apr 25, 2009.

  1. Imperfect Ending

    Imperfect Ending Active Member

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    Location:
    Portland, Oregon
    Hello I have two questions about this plant

    1.How long does it take this plant to turn green from purple/red when you take it out of the sun and place it in constant shade?
    -And vice versa?

    2. How long does it have to stay in the sun for per day for it to remain purple/red?


    Thank you very much

    -Nanthawat J.
     
  2. Gomero

    Gomero Well-Known Member Maple Society 10 Years

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    Location:
    Southwest France
    These questions are impossible to answer precisely. First the genetic makeup of red-leaved seedlings which are generally proposed as 'Atropurpureum' are all different. Second, even in the case where we have the true-to-type cultivar propagated by grafting, local conditions are all different (i.e.: dappled shade in L.A. is probably equivalent to full sun in Cardiff).

    Having said so, you should be aware that once a leaf has greened out it will probably remain green even if placed back in full sun, only the new growth will again be red. My guess is that an average 'Atropurpureum' will require 5-6 hours of full sun (maybe less in L.A.) to keep a good red but, again, be aware of the great variabilty, I have seen plants green out in full sun in my area.

    In your case my best advice would be to find out by yourself if, as I understand from your message, the plant is in a pot.

    Gomero
     
  3. Imperfect Ending

    Imperfect Ending Active Member

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    The plant is in the ground :) But it's still small and it's only been about a week.
    Thank you for the answer though, it is very helpful :D
     

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