Acer rubrum 'October Brilliance'

Northern Red Maple, Red Maple

Acer rubrum ‘October Brilliance’ is a standout red maple cultivar selected for its exceptional late-season fall color and uniform, well-branched form. Spring brings small red flowers, followed by dark green, glossy foliage that forms a dense, attractive summer canopy.

As the name suggests, fall color peaks later than many red maples, turning brilliant crimson-red to scarlet, often holding color well into October. The habit is upright to oval-rounded, producing a strong, symmetrical medium to large shade tree with excellent landscape presence.

‘October Brilliance’ performs best in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to a wide range of soils, including moderately moist sites. It tolerates urban conditions and is valued for its late fall color reliability and strong structure.

Size



Width: 30–40 ft



Height: 45–55 ft



Hardiness



USDA Zones: 4–9



Best Uses


Medium to large shade tree



Residential lawns and parks



Street tree (with adequate space)



Late-season fall color focal point



Urban and commercial landscapes

Plant type

Shade Tree, Street Tree

Height

45-65'

Width

30-40'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Ruby

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange Red

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Clay, Heavy, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Street Tree

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Fissured, Smooth

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes

10-year height

12'

10-year width

15'