Species

Acer rubrumRed Maple

12 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Burgundy Belle Red Maple

Acer rubrum 'Magnificent Magenta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer rubrum, the Red Maple, is one of North America's most common and widespread deciduous trees, valued for its rapid growth, adaptability, and reliable fall color.

Burgundy Belle ('Magnificent Magenta') is distinguished by its exceptionally brilliant and long-lasting fall color, a vibrant burgundy-red that holds well into autumn. It has a compact, symmetrical, and rounded form.

Uses & Benefits:

Burgundy Belle is a premier shade tree, primarily grown for its spectacular and reliable burgundy-red fall display. Its dense, rounded canopy provides excellent shade in summer, and the reddish flowers in early spring are a subtle but welcome sign of the changing seasons.

As a fast-growing tree, it provides shade relatively quickly. It is also adaptable to a range of soil conditions, including wet areas and clay soils, making it a versatile choice for many landscapes.

Red Maple is a valuable native tree. Its early spring flowers are an important food source for bees. The seeds (samaras) are eaten by squirrels and birds, and the tree serves as a host for the larvae of the Imperial Moth and other insects.

SpeciesAcer rubrumRed Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

540 inches

Width

540 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

80-100 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Wilted leaves are highly toxic to horses.

Bloom period

Early spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun for the best fall color.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Ensure the root flare at the base of the trunk is at or above ground level.
Backfill with the excavated soil, breaking up any large clumps.
Water deeply and thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

For the most intense fall color, plant in slightly acidic soil (pH below 6.5); alkaline soils can cause chlorosis and muted colors.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water young trees regularly during dry spells.
Perform structural pruning when the tree is young to encourage good form.
Protect the thin bark of young trees from sunscald and mechanical damage.
Monitor for pests like scale insects on the trunk and branches.

Don't

Do not plant in high pH (alkaline) soils.
Avoid planting where the shallow roots will interfere with sidewalks or driveways.
Don't prune in late winter or early spring, as maples will 'bleed' sap heavily.
Never pile mulch up against the trunk ('volcano mulching').

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Outstanding specimen shade treeVibrant focal point for fall colorDurable park or large-area tree

Companion Plants

Fothergilla major 'Mount Airy'Hydrangea quercifolia Viburnum dentatum Carex pensylvanica Cornus florida

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burgundy Belle Red Maple questions

What zones can Burgundy Belle Red Maple grow in?

Burgundy Belle 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 Burgundy Belle Red Maple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Burgundy Belle Red Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Burgundy Belle Red Maple bloom?

Burgundy Belle 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 Burgundy Belle Red Maple need full sun?

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