Acer Pseudoplatanus Leopoldii Sycamore

Acer pseudoplatanus Leopoldii or Sycamore Leopoldii
The Acer pseudoplatanus Leopoldii, also called the Sycamore Leopoldii, is a cultivar of the common sycamore tree. The pretty variegated tree was first introduced to the public in the 1860s and quickly became a treasured landscape choice. A large deciduous tree, it was developed in Belgium and given the name ‘Leopoldi’ in honor of King Leopold.

The Sycamore Leopoldii tree was bestowed the Royal Horticultural Society’s First Class Certificate in 1865. It was later granted the coveted Award of Garden Merit in 1993. The eye-catching tree has withstood the test of time and still remains a popular choice.

Sycamore Leopoldii features eye-catching variegated foliage. In the spring months, the foliage emerges a showy creamy pink shade. As the leaves mature they turn a bright green with splashes and speckles of yellow and pink. The leaves are wonderfully unique because no two leaves look exactly the same. The leaf stalks are a purplish-red. The leaves have a maple-type form. During the spring and summer months, the contrasting colours of the foliage are extremely striking. In the autumn, the foliage turns a brilliant yellow before falling from the tree. In the winter, the tree can tolerate temperatures down to -34 degrees Celsius.

The Acer pseudoplatanus Leopoldii is a wonderfully tough and hardy tree that will thrive in your garden. It grows in virtually any type of soil. It is extremely wind tolerant and can even flourish in coastal regions. Heavy, salt-laden winds have no effect on the tree.

When fully grown, the Sycamore Leopoldii usually stands between 17 to 22 meters in height. Its canopy grows into a rounded shape. The tree’s crown can be pruned in the spring months to maintain its size and shape. However, it does not require pruning to flourish. When allowed to grow naturally, the tree’s canopy usually grows to a width of 14 to 20 meters.

Plant the Sycamore Leopoldii in an area with full sun or partial shade for best growth. It will tolerate acidic to alkaline soil. During the tree’s first year of growth, keep the soil evenly moist to encourage a strong root system. After the tree is established, it can withstand bouts of drought.

Acer pseudoplatanus Leopoldii is a true landscape gem that looks fantastic in any garden. Unlike many other trees, the Sycamore Leopoldii truly requires zero maintenance to look stunning year after year.