Maple - Red
Red Maple | Acer rubrum
Plant Description
Red Maple is a fast-growing and highly ornamental shade tree that adds beauty throughout the seasons. Showy red flowers appear in early spring before the leaves emerge, creating an eye-catching display. Green summer foliage forms a full canopy, followed by outstanding fall color in brilliant shades of scarlet and yellow. Adaptable and reliable, red maple performs best in moist soils and benefits from some protection from intense afternoon sun.
At A Glance
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Height (50 ft.)
Reaches approximately 50 feet tall at maturity, making it a large shade tree well suited for parks, lawns, and naturalized landscapes.
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Spread (35–40 ft.)
Develops a broad canopy that provides generous shade and strong visual presence.
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Shape (Upright, rounded)
Grows with an upright habit that matures into a rounded crown, offering a classic shade-tree form.
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Exposure (Full Sun to Part Shade)
Grows well in full sun but performs especially well with some part-shade exposure, particularly in warmer or drier locations.
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Foliage (Green)
Medium to dark green foliage creates a dense summer canopy and strong contrast for fall color.
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Fall Foliage (Brilliant scarlet or yellow)
Autumn color is a major feature, ranging from vivid scarlet reds to bright yellows depending on site conditions and genetics.
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Hardiness Zone (USDA Zones 4–6)
Hardy in Zones 4 through 6, well adapted to cooler climates and moist soil conditions.