Apollo Sugar Maple

Apollo Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Barrett Cole')

Apollo Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Barrett Cole') is a compact, columnar cultivar of the native sugar maple, selected for its upright form and brilliant fall color. This narrow-growing selection of Acer saccharum is ideal for spaces where a traditional sugar maple might outgrow its welcome. Despite its reduced footprint, Apollo maintains the refined foliage, rich autumn hues, and longevity that define the species, making it a practical and attractive option for smaller urban and residential landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Barrett Cole' matures to about 30 to 35 feet tall and only 10 to 12 feet wide, forming a tight, vertical silhouette. Its classic sugar maple leaves are dark green and deeply lobed, turning vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in fall. The dense, upright branching structure holds its shape with minimal pruning, making it especially useful in narrow spaces such as parkways, courtyards, or along driveways. Its rugged adaptability and reduced size make Apollo a strong focal point tree where horizontal space is limited.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun is best for dense form and optimal fall color development.
• Soil: Prefers deep, fertile, well-drained soils; tolerates a range of textures with consistent moisture.
• Water: Moderate; requires regular watering during establishment and benefits from mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Humidity: Adaptable to varying humidity levels; avoid prolonged drought for best results.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8; well suited to both northern and temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Bold columnar form and bright foliage make it a natural vertical accent.
• Narrow Urban Sites: Perfect for tight spaces where height is desired but width must be controlled.
• Driveway and Entry Borders: Upright form frames paths and structures without overreaching.
• Street and Median Trees: Compact size and clean shape suit municipal plantings with spatial constraints.
• Residential Lawns: Adds seasonal interest and shade without overwhelming smaller yards.

Low Maintenance Care

Apollo Sugar Maple requires very little pruning and is naturally pest resistant. With its strong branching and manageable growth rate, it delivers long-term structure and beauty without demanding upkeep.

• Watering: Water regularly for the first 2-3 years; drought tolerance improves with age.
• Pruning: Prune minimally to remove crossing or damaged branches; structural pruning rarely needed.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if leaf size or growth is reduced.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Excellent resistance to most pests and diseases common to maples.
• Winter Care: Fully hardy; bark and buds withstand cold without special protection.

Why Choose Apollo Sugar Maple?

Apollo Sugar Maple brings the stature and seasonal brilliance of sugar maple into a form suitable for today's tighter landscapes. Its refined shape and classic fall color make it a smart, low-maintenance addition to any design.

• Compact, Columnar Form: Upright habit fits narrow spaces without sacrificing height or presence.
• Brilliant Fall Foliage: Glowing red, orange, and gold tones appear reliably each year.
• Urban Friendly: Withstands heat, moderate pollution, and confined root zones.
• Native Heritage: Offers the ecological value and resilience of true North American sugar maples.
• Low Upkeep: Naturally tidy form requires little pruning or seasonal maintenance.

For tight spaces in need of vertical interest and dependable fall color, Apollo Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Barrett Cole') offers a refined solution that blends classic beauty with modern practicality.