tree RHS AwardN. America Native

Red Maple

Name: Red Maple
Brand: Acer
Availability: InStock

Acer rubrum 'October Glory'

$69.00$140.00Save 51%

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

600 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Wilted leaves are toxic to horses

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer rubrum, or Red Maple, is one of the most common and widespread deciduous trees of eastern North America. It is known for its red flowers in early spring, red fruit, and brilliant red fall color. 'October Glory' is a popular female cultivar celebrated for its intense, long-lasting crimson-red fall color that develops later in the season than many other maples. It has a dense, rounded to oval crown.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

One of the most popular shade trees, prized for its spectacular, long-lasting crimson fall foliage. Its dense, rounded form and attractive gray bark provide year-round appeal.

A fast-growing tree that provides excellent shade. It is tolerant of wet soils, making it a good choice for low-lying areas in the landscape.

Its early spring flowers are an important early-season nectar and pollen source for bees. The seeds (samaras) are eaten by squirrels and birds, and the tree provides nesting sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature HillsDEAL

In Stock$140.00$69.00

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade and moist, acidic soil
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the ground
Backfill with the soil you removed, watering as you go
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, avoiding the trunk
Water deeply once or twice a week for the first year

Pro Tip

Plant in acidic soil for the most vibrant fall color; alkaline soils can lead to chlorosis and muted color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in summer.
Test soil pH if leaves appear yellow with green veins (chlorosis).
Prune to remove crossing or dead branches in winter.

Don't

Do not plant in dry or alkaline soils.
Do not fertilize heavily, which can force weak growth.
Do not pile mulch against the trunk, which can cause rot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Outstanding specimen for fall colorReliable shade tree for lawnsExcellent park or street tree

Companion Plants

Fothergilla gardenii Ilex verticillata Azalea Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Maple questions

What zones can Red Maple grow in?

Red Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Red Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Red Maple bloom?

Red Maple typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red Maple need full sun?

Red Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.