Acer saccharum 'Bailsta'
tree

Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple

Acer saccharum 'Bailsta'

$185.00
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

600 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived, 100+ years

Native To

Eastern North America (species)

Toxicity

Non-toxic, sap is edible

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer saccharum 'Bailsta', sold as Fall Fiesta®, is a large, vigorous deciduous tree selected for its classic, upright-rounded sugar maple form, faster growth rate, and exceptional fall color. It has thick, leathery leaves that are resistant to tattering. This cultivar is distinguished by its spectacular and long-lasting fall color display, which is a brilliant mix of oranges, reds, and yellows. Its faster growth and resistance to leaf tatter make it a particularly robust and rewarding landscape tree.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesFall Fiesta® is a quintessential North American shade tree, embodying strength and beauty. Its dense canopy of dark green, leathery leaves provides deep shade in summer. The autumn transformation is its crowning glory, with a reliable and breathtaking display of yellow, orange, and red that can last for several weeks. Its stately, rounded form makes it a powerful focal point in any large landscape.
Practical UsesThis is a long-lived, durable tree that serves as a multi-generational landscape feature. It is an excellent choice for parks, campuses, and large residential properties where its size can be accommodated. The species is the primary source of maple syrup, and while a single landscape tree isn't a commercial operation, it can be tapped for personal use.
Ecological BenefitsSugar maples are a keystone species in eastern forests. They provide habitat and nesting sites for countless birds. The seeds are a food source for birds and small mammals. The flowers provide early spring nectar for bees. The fallen leaves enrich the soil, creating a unique understory environment for native wildflowers.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Sooner Plant Farm
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1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$185.00

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with full sun to part shade and rich, well-drained soil.
  2. Provide ample space for its large mature size, away from structures.
  3. Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
  4. Set the tree so the root flare is visible at the soil line.
  5. Backfill with native soil and water deeply to settle.
  6. Mulch a wide ring around the tree, but do not let it touch the trunk.

Pro Tip

Avoid planting near roads treated with salt in winter, as sugar maples are highly sensitive to salt spray and runoff.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system.
  • Protect the trunk of young trees from sunscald with a tree wrap in winter.
  • Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.
  • Prune when young to develop a strong structure.

Don't

  • Do not plant in compacted soil or areas with poor drainage.
  • Avoid planting in narrow tree lawns or close to pavement due to its large roots.
  • Don't fertilize heavily, especially with high nitrogen formulas.
  • Never prune in spring, as it will bleed sap profusely.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Majestic shade tree for large lawns and parksStunning specimen tree for a multi-season displayClassic choice for lining avenues and large properties

Companion Plants

Cercis canadensis Fagus grandifolia Tilia americana Asarum canadense Geranium maculatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple questions

What zones can Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple grow in?

Fall Fiesta Sugar 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 Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple bloom?

Fall Fiesta Sugar 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 Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple need full sun?

Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Fall Fiesta Sugar Maple with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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