treeN. America Native

Freeman Maple

Acer freemanii 'Bailston'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

540 inches

Width

420 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

60-80 years

Native To

North America (Hybrid)

Toxicity

Wilted leaves can be toxic to horses

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer x freemanii is a naturally occurring hybrid of red maple (A. rubrum) and silver maple (A. saccharinum), combining the strong structure and fall color of the former with the fast growth and adaptability of the latter. Marketed as Matador, 'Bailston' is noted for its symmetrical, upright-oval form and its deeper red fall color that develops later than other cultivars. It has stronger branch attachments than a silver maple.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Matador maple offers a highly uniform and symmetrical shape, making it a predictable and handsome landscape tree. Its main show is in autumn, when the foliage turns a deep, rich red, often later than other maples, extending the fall color season.

Its fast growth rate makes it an excellent choice for quickly establishing shade in new developments. The strong wood and better branch structure make it less prone to storm damage than its silver maple parent.

As a hybrid of two native trees, it supports local ecosystems by providing food for seed-eating birds and insects, as well as offering nesting sites and cover. The early spring flowers are a food source for pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
Dig a planting hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, making sure the root flare is at ground level.
Backfill with the original soil, tamping lightly to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch over the root zone.

Pro Tip

Choose this hybrid for its adaptability to a wider range of soil pH than the parent red maple.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide regular water for the first few seasons to establish a strong root system.
Prune when young to develop strong, well-spaced scaffold branches.
Allow ample space for its mature size.
Monitor for pests and diseases, though it is generally robust.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out completely for extended periods.
Avoid wounding the trunk with lawn equipment.
Don't plant too close to buildings or power lines.
Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which can lead to weak growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fast-growing and reliable shade treeExcellent street tree due to its upright formSpecimen tree for consistent, vibrant fall color

Companion Plants

Hydrangea quercifolia Viburnum prunifolium Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans' Pennisetum alopecuroides Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Freeman Maple questions

What zones can Freeman Maple grow in?

Freeman Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Freeman Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Freeman Maple bloom?

Freeman 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 Freeman Maple need full sun?

Freeman Maple does best in full sun (6+ hours).