Red Sunset Red Maple

Red Sunset Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Franksred')

Red Sunset Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Franksred') is a classic shade tree selected for its strong canopy, dependable growth, and a fall color show that turns rich and vibrant as the season cools. Through summer, it forms a dense green crown that provides real shade and gives a landscape an established, finished look. In autumn, the canopy shifts into bright red tones that can light up the yard and read clearly from the street. With its substantial size and reliable performance in residential settings, Red Sunset Red Maple is a natural focal point tree for front yards, backyards, and streetscapes where you want shade and memorable seasonal color.

Distinctive Features

The defining feature is the fall display, with foliage that often turns a strong, saturated red and delivers a classic autumn moment. The tree typically develops an upright to oval-rounded canopy with good density, creating comfortable shade without looking messy. Leaves have the familiar red maple shape and a clean texture that works in almost any landscape style. As it matures, it becomes a true landscape anchor, adding structure, height, and seasonal change that improves the property year after year.

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 droughty sites for best performance.
• 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 40 to 50 feet tall and 30 to 35 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a signature shade tree where red fall color can define the landscape each autumn.
• Backyard Shade: Create cooling canopy over lawns, patios, and outdoor living areas.
• Front Yard Specimen: Build curb appeal with a strong crown and a fall finish that stands out from the street.
• Street and Driveway Planting: A strong option for larger planting strips where you want height, shade, and seasonal change.
• Property Structure Planting: Add long-term scale and autumn color behind layered plantings and along open edges.

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 good 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 Red Sunset Red Maple?

• Vivid Red Fall Color: Selected for a strong, saturated autumn display that brings standout seasonal impact.
• Dense Shade Canopy: Provides substantial summer shade and a clean, established look.
• Dependable Landscape Performance: A proven choice for residential yards and streetscapes.
• Strong Structure: Develops a well-formed crown that looks intentional as it matures.
• High Impact Focal Point Tree: Delivers shade, structure, and seasonal drama in one reliable tree.

If you want a classic shade tree with a dense summer canopy and a vivid red fall finish, Red Sunset Red Maple provides long-term focal point presence and dependable landscape value.