October Glory Red Maple

October Glory Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'October Glory')

October Glory Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'October Glory') is one of the most popular red maple cultivars for brilliant fall color and consistent performance. Known for its glossy green summer foliage and late-season scarlet to crimson-red autumn display, this reliable shade tree offers outstanding seasonal interest. It has a rounded, symmetrical canopy and a moderate to fast growth rate, making it ideal for residential streetscapes, lawns, and public spaces.

Distinctive Features

'October Glory' typically reaches 40 to 50 feet tall and 30 to 40 feet wide at maturity, forming a well-proportioned, oval-rounded crown. The leaves are dark green and lustrous throughout the growing season and hold late into fall before turning brilliant shades of red. Compared to other red maples, it colors later in the season, often extending fall interest well into November in many regions. Its adaptability to a range of soil types and climates makes it one of the most widely planted shade trees in the U.S.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun is best for vibrant fall color and strong canopy development.
• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil.
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture is best, especially during establishment and dry periods.
• Humidity: Tolerant of both humid and moderately dry conditions once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9; widely adapted across both northern and southern climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Brilliant late-season color makes it a standout in any landscape.
• Shade Trees: Fast-growing canopy provides generous shade for lawns and streetscapes.
• Street and Park Trees: Upright form and tolerance of urban conditions make it ideal for civic spaces.
• Residential Lawns: Great for front or backyards where strong structure and seasonal color are desired.
• School and Commercial Grounds: Low maintenance needs and uniform shape suit institutional plantings.

Low Maintenance Care

October Glory is an easy-care maple once established, requiring minimal pruning and thriving in a variety of settings. It maintains a tidy appearance and rarely suffers from pest or disease issues when planted in suitable conditions.

• Watering: Keep well-watered during establishment; benefits from deep watering in summer heat.
• Pruning: Light pruning in late winter or early spring to maintain structure and remove deadwood.
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed for growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally trouble-free; avoid poorly drained soils to prevent root issues.
• Winter Care: Cold hardy and reliable, with no special care required in Zones 4�9.

Why Choose October Glory Red Maple?

October Glory Red Maple offers vibrant fall color, strong structure, and broad adaptability, making it a favorite among homeowners, municipalities, and landscapers alike. Its beauty and performance make it one of the top red maples for four-season appeal.

• Late-Season Color: Glowing red foliage extends fall beauty into November.
• Fast Growth: Quickly provides shade and structure to new landscapes.
• Symmetrical Form: Naturally rounded canopy enhances visual balance in plantings.
• Urban Adaptability: Tolerates compacted soils, pollution, and variable conditions.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and dependable for long-term landscape impact.

For glowing autumn foliage, steady growth, and a classic shade tree silhouette, October Glory Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'October Glory') is a standout choice that delivers year after year.