Acer rubrum (Red Maple)

Noted for its lovely fall color, Acer rubrum (Red Maple) is a relatively fast-growing deciduous tree of pyramidal habit when young, becoming rounded to oval at maturity. In early spring, tiny red flowers, borne in erect clusters, appear before the leaves and are followed by red fruit. Emerging red tinged in spring, the leaves change to dark green with whitish undersides and often develop dazzling yellows and red in the fall. This Red Maple also provides some winter interest, with its attractive, smooth gray bark, often ridged and furrowed with age. Excellent as a specimen planting for lawns and streets.

• Grows up to 40-70 ft. tall (12-21 m) and 30-50 ft. wide (9-15 m).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, moist to wet, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, slightly acid conditions.
• Perfect as a specimen plant.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running. Fertilize in spring before the leaves emerge.
• May be affected by horse chestnut scale, aphids, verticillium wilt.
• Propagate by seed and by grafting.
• Toxic to horses.
• Dianthus caryophyllus is native to the Mediterranean area.
• Native to Eastern North America from Quebec to Minnesota south to Florida and eastern Texas.