Red maple - Acer rubrum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Red maple

Also known as: Swamp maple, Water maple

The red maple is a common North American tree with distinctive red leaves and flower buds. Its sap can be made into maple syrup and the wood is good for furniture. Though non-toxic to humans, the leaves are very toxic to horses. According to the U.S. Forest Service, red maple is the most common tree in eastern North America.

Scientific classification

Species

Red maple (Acer rubrum)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

18 m to 30 m

Plant Height

9 m to 15 m

Spread

Green, Red, Yellow

Leaf Color

1 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Red, Green, Copper, Burgundy, Yellow, Gold

Fruit Color

Red

Flower Color

Red, Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Red maple

Attributes of Red maple

Growth Rate

Rapid growth in red maple is observed primarily during spring and summer, resulting in intense leaf production and significant height gain. The effervescent growth pattern visibly manifests as quickly expanding canopy networks. Importantly, the accelerated summer growth prepares red maple for neon-colored fall foliage, a horticultural delight.

Distribution of Red maple

Distribution Map

Red maple is native to the eastern United States and Canada, where it most commonly grows in moist forests and swamps. This plant is also commonly cultivated for use in landscaping through its native region as well as in parts of Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, uplands, dry rocky hillsides, sand dunes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Used by the maple syrup industry. Also, good for tourism in the fall, with its vivid red foliage attracting crowds of visitors.

Beauty Improvement Value

Extract is often used in natural skincare products.

Garden Use

Red maple is a fast-growing deciduous tree commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its red color; leaves, fruit, buds, and twigs all display red hues. During fall, leaves turn a brilliant yellow. Its dense root system makes it suitable for preventing soil erosion. Red maple is appropriate as an ornamental in Cottage gardens. Plant with Spring Snowflake for color contrasts.

Symbolism

Celebration, auspiciousness, aid in survival, strength, protection

Interesting Facts

In the autumn, the red maple tree's leaves change from yellow-green to yellow, and then to bright red. When viewed in the sunshine, the leaves look fluorescent, with bursts of red that are dazzling and gorgeous, providing a spectacular autumn view.

Name Story

Red maple: Acer rubrum is famous for its bright crimson leaves in autumn. In fact, not only are its leaves red, but its flowers, petioles, branches, and seeds all show varying degrees of red. Although its leaves exhibit different colors ranging from orange to red based on the acidity and alkalinity of the soil, this does not stop it from being known as the red maple.

Soft maple: Some people question the name Soft Maple, because the tree is clearly made of hard wood. However, when compared with the sugar maple (Acer saccharum), the red maple is noticeably softer, with its wood easier to shrink and curl. This makes it more suitable for making musical instruments and furniture.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red maple, including the following common varieties :

Red maple 'Scanlon'Red maple 'October Glory'

Quickly Identify Red maple

Tree height ranges from 40-120 feet (12-36 meters), with a trunk diameter of 1.5-2.5 feet (45-75 cm).

Flowers bloom in red clusters before leaves, with inconspicuous petals, measuring 0.2 inches (5 mm) each.

Distinctive paired samaras in 'V' shape, initially colorful then turning tan/brown, measuring 3/4 inch (2 cm) long.

Leaves are palmately veined, mainly with 3 lobes, sometimes 5 lobed, turning red, orange, and yellow in fall.

Distinct red and shiny stem no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, with overlapping scale winter buds.

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Care Guide for Red maple

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Red maple thrives in moist soil, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks. Once established, it tolerates drought but is sensitive to precipitation changes, needing more water during dry spells. Typically grown outdoors, it adapts well from its wetland origins.

Fertilize: Red maple thrives with balanced fertilizers in spring and fall, using a 10-10-10 mix at one to two pounds per inch of trunk diameter. Avoid excess application to prevent root burn, apply at the drip line, and reduce fertilization during dormancy for optimal growth and vibrant fall colors.

Pruning: Noted for its vibrant red foliage, red maple thrives with early spring pruning to promote healthier growth. Techniques include removing dead branches, thinning crowded areas, and shaping for structure. Clean cuts near branch collars enhance healing and reduce disease risk, tailored to the plant's growth cycle.

Propagation: Red maple is propagated through cuttings by selecting healthy branches and using a sterilized tool for clean cuts. Applying rooting hormone and planting in well-draining soil while maintaining moisture and humidity promotes root development. Protect cuttings from extreme temperatures and sunlight for successful growth.

Repotting: Repot red maple every 2-3 years in early spring using a large, sturdy container. Provide well-draining soil and adequate water post-repotting. Apply mulch for moisture retention and use a balanced fertilizer to promote optimal health.

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Images of Red maple

Attributes of Red maple

Distribution of Red maple

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Red maple

Care Guide for Red maple

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