Red Maple

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is a widely distributed and highly adaptable native tree found throughout eastern and central North America. Celebrated for its rapid growth, showy seasonal color, and tolerance of a wide range of site conditions, this species is a staple in both natural forests and cultivated landscapes. Its common name refers to the tree�s consistent red highlights�buds, flowers, leaf stems, and autumn foliage�all of which contribute to its ornamental appeal across the seasons.

Distinctive Features

Red Maple typically grows 40 to 70 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 50 feet, forming an oval to rounded canopy. The leaves are 3 to 5 lobed with serrated margins, medium green in summer, and turn shades of red, orange, or yellow in the fall. Red flowers appear in early spring before leaf-out, offering a welcome burst of color and a valuable early nectar source for pollinators. The tree�s smooth gray bark becomes furrowed with age, adding visual texture in winter. Red Maple is known for its adaptability to both dry ridges and wet lowlands, making it a versatile landscape and reforestation species as well as a popular shade tree.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best fall color in full sun.
• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils from dry sandy loam to wet clay; prefers moist, slightly acidic soils.
• Water: Moderate to high; thrives in moist soils but is drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Excellent performance in both humid and transitional climates.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�9; extremely cold hardy and broadly adaptable across most of the U.S.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Bold fall color and seasonal interest make it a strong visual anchor in the landscape.
• Shade Trees: Large canopy provides quick and effective shade for lawns and parks.
• Naturalized Areas: Ideal for restoration, stormwater management, and native plantings.
• Wildlife Gardens: Provides food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and small mammals.
• Urban and Suburban Landscapes: Versatile enough for city streets, yards, and institutional grounds.

Low Maintenance Care

Red Maple is fast-growing and low maintenance, especially when sited correctly. Its broad environmental tolerance and ease of establishment make it a favorite among landscape professionals and homeowners alike.

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first 1�2 years; established trees tolerate dry spells.
• Pruning: Best pruned in late winter to maintain form and remove crossing branches; avoid heavy summer pruning due to bleeding.
• Fertilizing: Requires little fertilization once established; can benefit from spring feeding in poor soils.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; may experience leaf spots or tatter in unfavorable conditions but recovers quickly.
• Winter Care: Extremely cold hardy; no special protection needed in northern climates.

Why Choose Red Maple?

Red Maple is a dependable and fast-growing native tree that delivers multi-season interest and broad environmental adaptability. Its mix of ornamental value, ecological function, and site tolerance makes it a top choice for both designed and natural landscapes.

• Fast Growth: Quickly develops into a full-sized shade tree.
• Brilliant Fall Color: Offers a mix of scarlet, orange, and yellow foliage in autumn.
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators, songbirds, and small mammals.
• Native Resilience: Naturally adapted to a wide range of conditions and climates.
• Versatile Usage: Suitable for streetscapes, parks, woodlands, and residential settings.

For a native tree that grows quickly, provides shade, supports wildlife, and lights up the fall landscape, Red Maple (Acer rubrum) continues to be one of the most reliable and rewarding choices available.