Easily grown in moist, organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Grows well in sandy loams. May be grown in full sun in the northern parts of its growing range, but prefers some part afternoon shade in the southern parts (including St. Louis) of its growing range. New foliage may scorch in full sun locations in hot summers areas, particularly if soils are not kept consistently moist. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool. Avoid hot and dry sites. Site in locations protected from strong winds. Pruning is best kept to a minimum, but if needed should be done in late fall to mid winter. Spring or summer pruning often results in significant bleeding.
‘Dissectum Atropurpureum' is a purple-leaved Japanese maple with dissected leaves and contorted branching. It typically matures in a broad-mounded form to 6-8' (less frequently to 15') tall. It is noted for its ferny, lace-like foliage that emerges purple red in spring, matures to green with purple tints in summer and finally turns a showy orange-red in fall. Palmate, 7 to 11-lobed leaves (to 6" long) are deeply cut to the point of attachment and are deeply dissected. Small reddish flowers in spring are somewhat attractive on close inspection, but are not showy from a distance. Seed from this cultivar will produce new maples, but the new trees will vary somewhat in both leaf color and in the amount of leaf dissection.
No serious insect or disease problems. Potential disease problems include stem canker, leaf spots, fusarium, verticillium wilt, botrytis, anthracnose and root rots. Potential insect pests include aphids, scale, borers and root weevils. Mites may be troublesome. Foliage tends to leaf out early in spring and is subject to damage from late spring frosts. Chlorosis may occur in high pH soils.
Japanese maples are generally grown for their attractive foliage and shape. Specimen/accent or group around the home, yard, patio, border periphery or rock garden. Good sun-dappled small understory tree or shrub. Broad-rounded form can be showcased by planting this cultivar near a pond or water garden. Can be effective in large containers.
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