Sun Valley Red Maple

Sun Valley Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley')

Sun Valley Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley') is a U.S. National Arboretum introduction prized for its brilliant fall color, uniform shape, and reliable performance. A hybrid between 'Red Sunset' and 'Autumn Flame', this male selection was developed specifically for consistent autumn color and seedless performance. Its symmetrical, oval crown and vivid red foliage make it one of the most dependable red maple cultivars for urban, suburban, and park landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Sun Valley' matures at 35 to 40 feet tall and about 25 to 30 feet wide, forming a tight, oval canopy that stays compact and symmetrical with minimal pruning. It features medium green leaves throughout the growing season, turning intense red in mid to late fall. As a male cultivar, it produces no seed, eliminating the cleanup associated with many red maples. Its parentage gives it a dense branch structure and excellent cold hardiness, with foliage that tends to hold its color longer than most red maple cultivars. It serves as a vibrant, low-maintenance focal point in any landscape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best grown in full sun for optimal shape and fall coloration.
• Soil: Prefers moist, slightly acidic soils; tolerates a wide range including clay and loam.
• Water: Moderate; provide consistent moisture during the first few growing seasons.
• Humidity: Performs well in humid to semi-humid climates; tolerates light drought once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�7; bred for cold climates and widely planted in northern and central U.S. regions.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Oval form and brilliant fall color create standout seasonal interest.
• Street and Boulevard Trees: Seedless habit and upright branching are ideal for sidewalks and medians.
• Shade Trees: Quickly develops into a medium-sized shade provider for lawns and patios.
• Institutional Landscapes: Uniform shape and low maintenance make it excellent for schools, campuses, and parks.
• Suburban and Residential Yards: Perfect size for most home landscapes with minimal mess.

Low Maintenance Care

Sun Valley Red Maple requires little intervention to thrive. Its symmetrical shape and seedless habit reduce the need for seasonal pruning or cleanup, making it a solid choice for both homeowners and landscape professionals.

• Watering: Deep, regular watering during the first two years is essential for root establishment.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; perform any shaping in late winter if desired.
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed to support vigorous growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to leaf spot, tar spot, and leafhopper; rarely troubled by serious pests.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy in northern climates with no winter protection required.

Why Choose Sun Valley Red Maple?

Sun Valley Red Maple delivers consistent color, clean structure, and no unwanted seedlings, making it one of the most user-friendly red maple selections available. It�s a smart, reliable choice for landscapes that value beauty without the burden of maintenance.

• Seedless Variety: No messy samaras to clean up in spring.
• Brilliant Red Fall Color: Foliage turns uniformly red, often lasting longer than other cultivars.
• Compact, Symmetrical Shape: Naturally forms a uniform oval without heavy pruning.
• Cold Hardy: Bred for reliable performance in Zone 4 and colder regions.
• Low Maintenance: Minimal pruning and cleanup make it ideal for residential and public spaces.

With its bold color, tidy form, and seedless habit, Sun Valley Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley') offers refined beauty and ease of care for landscapes across a wide range of climates.