Brandywine Red Maple

Brandywine Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Brandywine')

Brandywine Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Brandywine') is a refined shade tree valued for a clean summer canopy and a rich fall finish that can turn deep red to burgundy. It offers the classic red maple look with a more consistent, saturated autumn color that reads as bold and polished in residential landscapes. Through the growing season, the foliage stays a healthy green and the canopy develops into a strong, rounded to oval form that provides real shade without looking messy. If you want a long-term tree that brings dependable seasonal drama and becomes a focal point as it matures, Brandywine Red Maple is a strong choice.

Distinctive Features

The signature trait is fall color, often developing into a darker, wine-red tone that holds well and stands out against evergreens and late-season gardens. The canopy is typically uniform and well-shaped, giving the tree a composed, intentional look in both traditional yards and newer landscape designs. Leaves have the familiar red maple shape and texture, providing a classic feel in summer and a dramatic transformation in autumn. With good branching and a strong central structure, it grows into a substantial shade tree that adds real value to the property over time.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; best growth and fall color in full sun.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil is ideal; adaptable once established, but avoid sites that stay dry for long periods.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment, then deep-water during prolonged dry periods.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8.
• Habit: Deciduous shade tree with an upright to oval-rounded canopy.
• Mature Size: About 35 to 50 feet tall and 25 to 35 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a signature shade tree where the deep fall color can anchor the landscape.
• Backyard Shade: Provide cooling canopy over lawns, patios, and outdoor living spaces.
• Front Yard Specimen: Build curb appeal with a clean form and a bold autumn finish that reads from the street.
• Property Structure Planting: Add long-term height, shade, and seasonal change behind layered plantings.
• Street and Driveway Planting: A strong option for larger planting areas where you want a classic tree with standout fall color.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during the first two seasons to establish roots; continue watering during drought for best canopy health and fall performance.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch mulch layer over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter when young to develop strong branch structure and remove crossing branches; maintain a strong central leader.
• Feeding: Fertilize lightly in spring if growth is slow; avoid heavy feeding that can push weak growth.
• Site Considerations: Provide adequate root space and avoid severe soil compaction when possible for best long-term performance.

Why Choose Brandywine Red Maple?

• Deep Red Fall Color: Rich burgundy tones deliver a dramatic, polished autumn finish.
• Classic Shade Tree Value: Provides a dense summer canopy and cooling shade for outdoor spaces.
• Clean, Uniform Form: Develops a strong, well-shaped canopy that looks intentional in the landscape.
• Strong Long-Term Presence: Matures into a substantial tree that elevates the entire property.
• Easy Focal Point Tree: Brings summer shade and standout fall color with straightforward care.

If you want a classic red maple with a rich, wine-red fall display and a clean, reliable canopy, Brandywine Red Maple delivers shade, seasonal drama, and focal point presence that improves with age.