Red Maple

How to care for a successful tree

Sycamores prefer over 6 hours of sun to 4-6 hours of sun per day. When planting, this tree does better in deep, moist, and acidic soil. Red maples prefer wet soil but can be drought tolerant.

Fun Facts

  • Red maples produce a fruit called “samaras” which are commonly referred to as helicopters or whirlybirds

  • Native Americans used red maple bark as a wash for inflamed eyes and cataracts and as a remedy for hives

  • Red maples have a short lifespan compared to other trees

Scientific Name: Acer rubrum

Height: 40-60 ft

Width: 40 ft

Growing rate: medium to fast (growing 24 inches a year)

Leaf color: Green leaves that will turn red, yellow, or orange in the fall. Red maple trees are known for their vibrant fall colors.

Attributes

Red maples produce clusters of small red or yellow) flowers in the spring. Red maples have a lifespan of 80-100 years but some might live as long as 150 years. Reed maple also provides excellent shade in the summertime and reduces heat island effect, making it a great addition for an urban forest tree canopy.

Wildlife

This tree is a host plant for over 297 species of moths and butterflies. Red maples are also a source of food for White-tailed deer, squirrels, and chipmunks.

Additional Resources