Acer rubrum, commonly known as Red Maple, is a fast-growing and highly adaptable native tree known for its brilliant red fall foliage, reddish twigs, and early-spring red flowers. Reaching 40 to 70 feet in height with a rounded to oval crown, Red Maple is one of the most widely distributed and versatile hardwood trees in the eastern United States. It thrives in a variety of soil types—from wet lowlands to upland clay—and makes an excellent shade or street tree with strong ecological value.

Why choose Red Maple:

• Vivid seasonal color: Red flowers in early spring and fiery scarlet fall foliage

• Native and adaptable: Grows across a wide range of soils and climates

• Shade and structure: Fast-growing tree with a dense, spreading canopy

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade

• Soil needs: Tolerates both moist and dry conditions; adaptable to various soil types

• Maintenance: Low maintenance once established; prune in late winter if shaping is needed

Designs for your garden:

• Shade tree: Provides fast, reliable shade for lawns, patios, and streets

• Native landscapes: Blends beautifully into woodland edges or naturalized plantings

• Focal point: Makes a striking specimen tree with its bold fall display

Ecological benefits:

• Wildlife habitat: Supports birds, small mammals, and native pollinators

• Stormwater control: Excellent for reducing runoff and stabilizing soil

• Carbon capture: Grows quickly and contributes to air purification and climate benefits