Acer rubrum (Red Maple) Unity Grown

A classic tree among large shade trees, Acer rubrum or red maple is a stunning, large deciduous tree, perfect for canopy planting, a centerpiece large tree in a backyard, or for naturalizing in larger forests. Known best for its vivid red fall color there are a variety of cultivars that express brighter red or orange foliage, but the natural autumn hues of a red maple are just as striking. Red maple is fast-growing tree and will grow up to 40-70' tall with a spread of 30-50'. Small red flowers bloom on hanging clusters in early spring, but give way to the winged samara-type seed pods that maples are known for, attracting birds and small mammals through the summer and fall.

Acer rubrum prefers neutral to acidic average or fertile soils, and is adaptable to wet and dry conditions including drought and flood, making it a great fit for most landscape conditions. Red maple is also a host plant for a number of caterpillar species, including the larvae of the adorable Rosy Maple Moth (Dryocampa rubicunda) and the majestic Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora cecropia). Caterpillars living among the branches, alongside seeds, attract a number of birds and other animals to the summer and fall gardens.