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Aboretum

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

"Brilliant scarlet foliage and remarkable adaptability make Red Maple one of eastern North America's signature trees."

Take a Moment: Look closely throughout the seasons. Red Maple often displays hints of red in its flowers, twigs, buds, seeds, and autumn leaves, making color part of its identity year-round.

Why We Love This Tree

Reliable, adaptable, and beautiful, Red Maple brings vibrant color to the landscape long before many trees awaken in spring and long after summer fades.

Its seasonal transformations remind us that change can be one of nature's greatest strengths.

 

 

acer rubrum summer

Red Maple in Summer

 
 

 

Meet the Tree

Native throughout eastern North America, Red Maple thrives in forests, wetlands, and suburban landscapes. Its rapid growth and adaptability have made it one of the continent's most widely planted shade trees.

Spring flowers emerge before the leaves, while brilliant autumn foliage ranges from golden yellow to deep crimson.

Ecological Benefits

Red Maple supports dozens of native pollinators and provides food and shelter for birds, mammals, and insects. Its broad canopy offers cooling shade while helping improve air quality and reduce stormwater runoff.

Did You Know?


Red Maple is one of the first native trees to flower each spring, often blooming weeks before its leaves appear.

Quick Facts

Native: Eastern North America

Type: Deciduous Tree

Size: 40 to 70 ft tall × 30 to 50 ft wide

Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water: Moderate to High

Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

Flowers: Red flowers in early spring

Fall Color: Bright red, orange, or yellow

Botanical Profile

Family: Sapindaceae

Common Names: Red Maple, Swamp Maple

Genus Meaning: Acer means "sharp."

Species Meaning: rubrum means "red."

How to Recognize It

Look for these distinctive characteristics:

  • Three- to five-lobed leaves
  • Red buds and flowers
  • Smooth gray bark on young trees
  • Rounded crown
  • Brilliant fall color
  • Winged samaras

Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Moist, adaptable

Moisture: Moderate to wet

Hardiness: USDA Zones 3 to 9

Tolerance: Wet soils, urban environments