A fast-growing North American shade tree with a tidy oval canopy that ignites in fiery red and orange autumn tones. Tolerant of damp soils and excellent for streets and parks.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 12 m H × 8 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Red Maple
Botanically, Acer rubrum is a fast-growing tree in the Sapindaceae family. It reaches around 12 m tall and 8 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Red Maple
Red Maple suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Red Maple does best in loamy and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Red Maple does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Red Maple in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Red Maple in the garden
Red Maple earns its place for a shade tree and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Red Maple with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Red Maple
Plant Sale lists Red Maple as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
