Red Maple (Acer rubrum)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Red Maple
Acer rubrum

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Red Maple leaves
Red Maple leaves
 
Features
Clusters of small, red flowers in early spring; red or yellow fall color. 
 
Culture
Full sun to light shade; prefers slightly moist, slightly acid soils; tolerates wet sites. 
 
Cultivars

Numerous, including

  • 'Autumn Flame'- excellent red fall color, earlier than the species.
  • 'Northwood'- very cold hardy with orange-red fall color.
  • 'October Glory' - excellent fall color, but the color develops late and early freezes may ruin it.
  • 'Red Sunset' - excellent red fall color, very cold hardy.

Several cultivars once considered to be red maples are now classified as hybrids between red maple and silver maple (Acer x freemanii). These include 'Armstrong', 'Autumn Blaze', and 'Morgan'.

 
 
Mature Height
40-60 Feet
 
Size
Medium
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Oval to rounded 
 
Native To:
United States (and Illinois) 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
3 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Tolerance
Wet Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Shade
Specimen
Street
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Red
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Animal Damage

Bacterial Disease

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease

Herbicide Injury

Insect Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Leaf hoppers can be a problem. When planted in alkaline soils, this tree may exhibit chlorosis (yellowing leaves), due to a manganese deficiency.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic