treeN. America Native

Red Maple

Name: Red Maple
Brand: Acer
Availability: InStock

Acer rubrum 'Autumn Flame'

$140.00

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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

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

80-100 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Wilted leaves are toxic to horses

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer rubrum is a widespread and adaptable deciduous tree native to eastern North America, celebrated for its brilliant fall color and early spring flowers. It has a rounded to oval crown and smooth gray bark when young. 'Autumn Flame' is one of the first red maple cultivars to color up in the fall, developing an intense, brilliant scarlet-red display. It has smaller leaves than the species and a dense, rounded habit.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A highly popular landscape tree, 'Autumn Flame' is prized for its early and exceptionally brilliant scarlet fall color. Its dense, rounded form provides excellent shade, and the early red flowers offer a subtle sign of spring.

As a fast-growing tree, it quickly provides shade, which can help reduce home cooling costs. The wood, known as soft maple, is used for furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments.

Red maple is a crucial early-season pollen and nectar source for bees. The seeds (samaras) are eaten by squirrels and birds. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in a wide range of habitats, providing cover and nesting sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$140.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun and moist, acidic, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball, but no deeper.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible at soil level.
Backfill with the excavated soil and water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
Water deeply once or twice a week for the first growing season.
Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the tree's base.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry periods.
Protect the thin bark of young trees from mowers and string trimmers.
Perform structural pruning when the tree is young to encourage good form.
Monitor for pests like scale insects on the trunk and branches.

Don't

Do not plant in high pH (alkaline) soils.
Avoid planting too close to sidewalks or driveways as surface roots can be an issue.
Don't pile mulch up against the trunk, as this can cause rot.
Avoid heavy pruning, especially 'topping' the tree.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Outstanding specimen tree for brilliant fall colorExcellent shade tree for lawns and parksSuitable for moist locations and rain gardens

Companion Plants

Cornus florida Amelanchier canadensis Viburnum dentatum Chionanthus virginicus Ilex verticillata

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 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red 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 mid-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.