Acer rubrum (Red Maple) Unity Grown

A classic among large shade trees in North America, Acer rubrum or red maple is a stunning, deciduous tree, perfect for canopy planting, specimen planting for large backyards or estate properties, or for naturalizing in larger forests. Known best for its vivid red fall color, there are quite a number of red maple cultivars that express brighter red or orange foliage (including 'October Glory'), but the natural autumn hues of a red maple are absolutely striking all on their own. Acer rubrum is fast-growing tree and will grow up to 40-70' tall with a spread of 30-50' at maturity, meaning huge swathes of color in the fall. In the spring, small red flowers bloom on hanging clusters and eventually give way to the winged, samara-type seed pods that maples are known for, attracting and feeding birds and small mammals through the summer and fall.

Acer rubrum prefers neutral to acidic, average to fertile soils, and is adaptable to wet and dry conditions including drought and flood, making it a great fit for most landscape conditions through most times of the year. Beyond its ecological versatility, red maple is also a host plant for a number of beautiful butterfly and moth 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, meaning three seasons of interest for the home landscape.