Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ (18/05/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to light shade
Flowering period: Early spring
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 8m
Eventual Spread: 8m
Hardiness: 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Family: Sapindaceae
Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ is a slow growing deciduous tree with a bushy habit and rounded crown. Its leaves are palmate with 5 lobes, up to 14cm long and 20cm broad. Its leaves emerge pink in spring, maturing to dark green , mottled with cream. Its bark is grey/ brown and forms platelets on the trunk. Its flowers are rarely produced.
The species Acer pseudoplatanus, commonly known as the Sycamore or Sycamore Maple, is native to central Europe and south west Asia.
Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ Leaf (18/05/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
The etymological root of the binomial name Acer is derived from the Latin meaning ‘sharp’ in reference to the classical roman use of the genus to make spears. Pseudoplatanus is derived from the Greek meaning ‘false Platanus‘.
The landscape architect may find Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ useful as an unusual small tree. This tree is tolerant of urban pollution.
Ecologically, Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ is of little value to wildlife.
The Royal Horticultural Society has given Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ their prestigious Award of Garden Merit in 1993.
Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ Bark (18/05/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil.
Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Brilliantissimum’ requires little maintenance. Pruning should be carried out in late autumn.
