tree RHS AwardN. America Native

Red Sunset Maple

Name: Red Sunset Maple
Brand: Acer
Availability: InStock

Acer rubrum 'Franksred'

$185.00

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

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

Adaptable

Lifespan

60-90 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Wilted leaves are highly toxic to horses.

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer rubrum, or Red Maple, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to eastern North America, celebrated for its brilliant fall foliage and early spring flowers. It is highly adaptable to various soil conditions. Red Sunset ('Franksred') is one of the most popular Red Maple cultivars, prized for its symmetrical, pyramidal form and exceptionally reliable, brilliant orange-red to red fall color that develops early and persists.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Red Sunset is a quintessential shade tree, offering a beautiful pyramidal form, dense summer foliage, and a spectacular, reliable fall color display that makes it a standout feature in any landscape.

Its relatively fast growth and dense canopy provide excellent shade, helping to cool homes and outdoor living spaces. It is a popular and durable choice for suburban lawns and public parks.

The early spring flowers are an important nectar source for bees. 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 in full sun with moist, acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at ground level.
Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, breaking up any large clumps.
Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in acidic soil for the most intense fall color; alkaline soils can cause chlorosis and muted color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells in the first few years.
Maintain a consistent mulch layer to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Prune to develop a single, strong central leader when the tree is young.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soils.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, as this can cause rot.
Refrain from heavy pruning after the tree has leafed out.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic specimen shade tree for lawnsVibrant street tree for brilliant fall colorExcellent choice for parks and large properties

Companion Plants

Fothergilla gardenii Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' Amelanchier canadensis Viburnum dentatum Carex pensylvanica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Sunset Maple questions

What zones can Red Sunset Maple grow in?

Red Sunset 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 Red Sunset Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Red Sunset Maple bloom?

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

Does Red Sunset Maple need full sun?

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