Acer pseudoplatanus Leopoldii - Maple

Acer pseudoplatanus f. variegatus 'Leopoldii' is an old variety of Sycamore Maple, still popular for its recognizable variegated foliage, pink when budding then speckled with yellow and white. Smaller than the species, it reaches a height of about 10 to 15 m (32 ft 10 in to 49 ft) with a width of 10 m (32 ft 10 in). This beautiful tree with a very dense pyramidal shape will be magnificent when planted alone to highlight its changing foliage. The Sycamore Maple is undemanding in terms of soil, as long as it is deep enough to accommodate its powerful root system. Vigorous, hardy, wind-resistant, salt-tolerant, and pollution-resistant, it will find a place in medium to large gardens.

Native to mountainous regions of Europe, the Acer pseudoplatanus, not to be confused with Acer platanoides, is known as Sycamore Maple, false plane tree, large maple, or mountain maple, and rarely as white maple depending on the region. It is a large forest tree of the Aceraceae family that can reach a height of 35 to 40 m, often associated with fir and beech trees. This species of light and semi-shade can live up to 500 years. Its wood is commonly used for making musical instruments.

Sycamore Maple 'Leopoldii' was obtained in 1864 in Belgium by Domien Vervaene, in tribute to King Leopold II. Smaller than the species, it reaches a height of about 10 to 15 m (32 ft 10 in to 49 ft) at maturity, and has a pyramidal and very dense habit. The deciduous foliage consists of large palmate leaves with 5 pointed, dentate lobes, measuring 12 to 20 cm (4.7 to 7.9 in) in length. The leaves are pink-copper when budding, gradually turning green, speckled with yellow and cream-white. In autumn, they turn a beautiful yellow that can be seen from afar. Flowering occurs in April-May, after the leaves appear. The small yellow flowers are very nectar-rich and arranged in pendulous terminal clusters. The abundant fruiting, in the form of winged fruits called samaras only appears on subjects at least 20 years old. The bark of the branches is olive green to grey and flakes off in large plates as it ages.

Acer pseudoplatanus 'Leopoldii' is a very vigorous tree, perfectly resistant to severe frost and wind and not picky about soil type as long as it is deep and moist enough. It prefers slightly acidic, non-limestone soils. Planted alone in a park or large garden, it will be majestic. It is an excellent shade tree thanks to its dense foliage, and its great tolerance to bad weather and salt spray makes it a very good windbreak tree. Finally, if space allows, it will be magnificent as an avenue tree to adorn alleys and borders with its imposing presence, pleasant shade, and sumptuous colours.