Acer negundo var. violaceum has eye-catching burgundy tassels on bare branches before the new spring growth. The young shoots and leaves are purple-maroon and mature into green summer leaves that turn golden in autumn. It produces small, pink-purple flowers in early to mid-spring. Acer negundo var. violaceum does not tolerate shade and strong winds, and its seeds are toxic to horses. However, it can tolerate air pollution, drought, and occasionally water-logged soils once established. It is cold hardy. Acer negundo is deciduous and native to south-central Canada, much of the United States, and Guatemala. Learn more about Acer negundo.