Acer rubrum

Red Maple

Acer rubrum, commonly known as Red Maple, is a fast-growing native shade tree valued for its adaptability, early red flowers, and outstanding fall color. Spring brings small red flowers before leaf-out, followed by medium green foliage that creates a dense, attractive summer canopy.

In fall, red maple lives up to its name, turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and scarlet, often earlier than many other shade trees. Leaf color intensity can vary by seed source and site conditions. The growth habit is upright to rounded, forming a broad canopy with age.

Red maple is highly adaptable to a wide range of soils, including moist sites, and tolerates urban conditions better than sugar maple. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil, though it is more forgiving than many large maples.

Size



Width: 40–60 ft



Height: 50–70 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 3–9



Best Uses


Large shade tree for lawns and parks



Native and naturalized plantings



Street tree (with proper site selection)



Fall color focal point



Riparian and moisture-tolerant landscapes










 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

60-70'

Width

40-60'

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Provide Shade

Shape

Broad Upright, Oval/Rounded

Bark

Fissured

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes