Purple Common Oak Tree ‘Purpurascens’ 20/40cm (5L)

The Purple Common Oak Tree ‘Purpurascens’ – Quercus robur ‘Purpurascens’ is a truly spectacular cultivar that transforms the traditional English oak into a dramatic statement tree. This extraordinary red-leaved variety offers an ever-changing display of colour throughout the growing season, making it one of the most visually striking oaks available for larger gardens.

The most captivating feature of this remarkable tree is its stunning foliage display. In spring, the young leaves emerge in rich shades of purple-red, creating a breathtaking spectacle as the tree comes into leaf. As the season progresses, these vivid tones gradually evolve, with the foliage transitioning through deep brown hues before settling into an unusual and attractive purple-green during the summer months. The leaves catch and filter light beautifully, revealing rich undertones of red, brown, and violet that shift throughout the day. Even the young branches display this distinctive purple colouration, adding to the tree’s overall visual impact.

Also known by the synonym ‘Sanguinea’, this cultivar of the Pedunculate Oak combines the robust constitution and longevity of our native English oak with exceptional ornamental value. It’s a tree that commands attention in any setting, providing a dramatic focal point that contrasts beautifully with green-leaved trees and shrubs. The purple-tinted foliage creates wonderful depth in planting schemes and offers a sophisticated alternative to more common red or purple-leaved trees.

This is undeniably a tree for spacious gardens, where it has room to develop its full majestic form. The spreading canopy and substantial trunk that develop over time create an impressive architectural presence that anchors larger garden designs. It’s perfectly suited to parkland settings, large country gardens, or as a specimen tree in expansive lawns where its seasonal colour changes can be fully appreciated.

Care Guide for Gardens

Quercus robur ‘Purpurascens’ thrives in our temperate climate and is remarkably adaptable to most soil types. It performs best in deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage, though it tolerates heavy clay remarkably well. For the richest foliage colour, position the tree in full sun, as insufficient light will result in less pronounced purple tones.

Planting should ideally take place between November and March when the tree is dormant. Dig a generous planting hole at least twice the width of the root ball, and incorporate well-rotted organic matter into the base. Ensure the tree is planted at the same depth it was growing in its pot, and stake securely for the first two to three years to establish a strong root system.

Water thoroughly during the first two growing seasons, particularly during dry spells, to help establish a deep root system. Once established, this oak is remarkably drought-tolerant. Apply a generous mulch of organic matter around the base each spring, keeping it clear of the trunk, to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. If pruning is required, carry it out during late autumn or winter when the tree is fully dormant, avoiding spring and early summer when oak trees are susceptible to diseases. This cultivar maintains an attractive natural shape without intervention.

Feed young trees with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring for the first few years to encourage strong growth. Mature specimens rarely require feeding if mulched annually. The tree is generally pest and disease resistant, though watch for oak processionary moth in some regions and powdery mildew during humid summers.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.