treeN. America Native

Summer Red Maple

Name: Summer Red Maple
Brand: Acer
Availability: InStock

Acer rubrum 'Summer Red'

$185.00

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

540 inches

Width

420 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

60-90 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Leaves are toxic to horses if ingested when wilted.

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer rubrum is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to eastern North America, prized for its brilliant red fall color and early spring flowers. It is one of the most common and widespread deciduous trees in its native range. 'Summer Red' is distinguished by its new foliage, which emerges a vibrant burgundy-red in spring, maturing to dark green in summer. It then produces a brilliant orange to red fall color.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its striking foliage, which emerges burgundy-red in spring, turns green in summer, and culminates in a brilliant orange-red fall display. Its upright, oval form makes it an excellent specimen tree.

As a fast-growing tree, it provides ample shade relatively quickly, which can help reduce summer cooling costs for nearby buildings. It is also a popular choice for lining streets and driveways.

The early spring flowers are an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The seeds (samaras) are eaten by birds and small mammals, and the tree provides nesting sites for various bird species.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$185.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to partial shade and acidic soil.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Ensure the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
Backfill with the native soil, removing any large rocks or debris.
Water deeply and thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Provide supplemental water during dry spells for the first few years to prevent leaf scorch and encourage vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during establishment and drought periods.
Perform a soil test and amend if pH is too high (alkaline).
Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant.
Monitor for pests like aphids and scale, especially on new growth.

Don't

Do not plant in highly alkaline or compacted dry soils.
Avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk, as it can cause rot.
Do not fertilize heavily with nitrogen, which can force weak growth.
Avoid major pruning in late spring or summer when sap is flowing.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Striking specimen tree with multi-season interestExcellent shade tree for large lawns and parksVibrant street tree where soil is not alkaline

Companion Plants

Cornus florida Amelanchier canadensis Viburnum dentatum Fothergilla gardenii Carex pensylvanica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Summer Red Maple questions

What zones can Summer Red Maple grow in?

Summer Red Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Summer Red Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Summer Red Maple bloom?

Summer 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 Summer Red Maple need full sun?

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

Is Summer Red Maple drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Summer Red Maple handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.