Red Maple

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Full to part sun; moderately wet to medium moisture; tolerates coarse sands to fine silty clays, moderately acid to neutral pH.

40-75 feet tall by 20-50 feet spread; inconspicuous red flowers in late winter to early spring; seeds are winged paired samaras from March to April; spreads by seed.

Germination Code C (60-75 days at 41°F) or cold water soak 2-5 days. Easy from seed or softwood cuttings.

Native region: Statewide

Few pests seriously bother this species. Best to select a plant grown from local seed due to regional cold-hardiness differences. Does not adapt well to fall planting due to slow root establishment and winter damage risk; spring planting is preferred. Fall leaf color varies from yellow-green to crimson.