Red Maple
Acer rubrum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Native Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Ornamental, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None specified/Wild type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9; highly adaptable to varying climates from cold northern regions to humid southern areas.
About This Tree
A medium-to-large sized tree with a rounded or oval crown. It is known for its red features including red flowers in early spring, red twigs, red buds, and spectacular red fall color. It grows moderately fast and is a dominant forest species in Virginia.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, 2-4 inches long, with 3-5 shallow lobes. Leaves have an opposite arrangement, serrated margins, and a whitish/pouchy green underside. They turn brilliant red, orange, or yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and light gray when young, becoming dark gray and flaky or shaggy with long plate-like ridges as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and Central North America; native from Newfoundland to Florida.
Growing Season
Leads out in early spring after flowering; produces winged seeds (samaras) in late spring; enters dormancy in late fall after vibrant foliage display.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Needs moist, slightly acidic soil; highly tolerant of wet sites but also has moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically 40-70 feet tall with a spread of 30-50 feet. Moderate to fast growth rate; can live 80-150 years.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional fall color, tolerance to diverse soil types including clay and swampy conditions, and high sap sugar content though lower than Sugar Maple. Highly used in landscaping for quick shade.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides early-season nectar for bees and pollinators via spring blooms. Seeds (samaras) are eaten by squirrels, birds, and small mammals. Foliage serves as a host for various moth larvae; provides nesting habitat for cavity-nesting birds.
Notes
Culpeper, Va