Red Maple
Acer rubrum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Ornamental, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (A. rubrum), likely the wild type common in Virginia
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9; performs exceptionally well in the Virginia (Zone 7) climate.
About This Tree
Medium to large tree with a rounded or oval crown. Known for its moderate to fast growth rate and ability to grow in varied environments. Features red buds in winter and brilliant red or orange foliage in autumn.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, 3 to 5 lobed (often 3-lobed in young specimens like the photo), opposite arrangement. Green top with a silvery-white underside; margins are irregularly serrated. V-shaped notches between lobes and a characteristic red petiole (leaf stalk).
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and light gray on young trees; becomes dark gray, fissured, and plated/scaly with age. Identification on young trees is often by the smooth, beech-like gray texture.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern and Central North America, highly adaptable to diverse climates
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring; flowers appear in late winter/early spring (March-April) before leaves; samaras fruit in spring; enters dormancy in late autumn; transplant in late fall or early spring
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun to Partial Shade. Prefers moist to wet soils but highly adaptable; moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Height: 40-70 feet; Spread: 30-50 feet. Growth rate is moderate to fast. Lifespan typically 80-150 years.
Special Characteristics
Superior fall color ranging from yellow to vibrant red. Highly tolerant of urban pollution and varied soil pH; source of 'soft maple' timber for furniture and crates.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical early pollinator source due to late winter blooming. Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and squirrels; used by various Lepidoptera species as a host plant, including the Rosy Maple Moth.
Notes
Culpeper, Va