Japanese Maple 'Nicholsonii': Deeply Cut Purple-Red, Also Atrodissectum

Overview

Japanese Maple 'Nicholsonii' (Acer palmatum 'Nicholsonii'), also known as 'Atrodissectum' or 'Digitatum Atropurpureum', is an older cultivar with deeply divided, purple-red leaves that are not as finely dissected as the Dissectum group but more so than standard palmatum. It forms a small, spreading tree with a delicate, lacy texture. Spring color is intense red, summer bronzes, fall is crimson.

Botanical Details

• Family: Sapindaceae (sap-in-DAY-see-ee)
• Genus: Acer (AY-ser)
• Species: Acer palmatum (pahl-MAY-tum)
• Cultivar: 'Nicholsonii'
• Also known as: 'Atrodissectum', 'Digitatum Atropurpureum'

Growing Conditions

USDA zones 5-8. Prefers morning sun, afternoon shade. Moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly.

Landscape Uses

Good as a specimen in a border, woodland edge, or container. Its intermediate leaf texture bridges standard and laceleaf types.