The Red Maple ( Acer rubrum ) is one of the faster growing species of Maple. It is a deciduous tree native to North Americas and Canada. Although it can survive in temperatures down to a freezing -40°C, it can be grown in warmer climates and can be found naturally as south as Florida in America. Named and best known for its flaming red leaves in autumn, it is a popular choice as an ornamental feature tree in parks and private gardens and also as a shade tree or bonsai.
The Red Maple has quite a few common names including Canadian Red Maple, Water Maple, Swamp Maple, Soft Maple, Drummond Red Maple, Carolina Red Maple and Scarlet Maple.
Growth
The Acer Rubrum grows to an average of 20-30 metres tall with a width of 3-4 metres. The leaf is palmate and generally have 3 lobes, however, can have 5 but the extra two are usually much smaller and found at the base of the leaf. In early spring once Acer rubrum reaches maturity a display of small pink-red flowers will be seen prior to leaf development. Once the new leaves emerge, they are smooth and green on top but silvery and slightly furry underneath, as autumn arrives, they will turn orange and then their brilliant scarlet red.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Sapindaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold, Temperate, Sub-tropical in an appropriate location.
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-40 to 35°C / -40 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Suitable for many soil types, grows native in dry rocky soils to boggy swamps.
LOCATION:
Full Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 30 metres (98 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 3-4 metres (10-13 feet)
pH:
5.0-6.5 – Alkaline soils can cause leaf chlorosis and weak trees.
GROWTH TYPE:
Deciduous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Wind Pollinated & Monoecious (both male & female flowers are found on the same plant)
MATURITY:
50-70 years
GERMINATION RATES:
75-85%
GERMINATION TIME:
4 weeks cold stratification prior to sowing, then 3-4 weeks germination post sowing.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium-Hard
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 40
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes, leaves.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) for 1-2 years.
FACTS ABOUT ACER RUBRUM (Red Maple)
The Red Maple is an important food source for elk and deer, especially during the winter.
The ingestion of 700 grams of Acer rubrum leaves is extremely toxic to horses and 1.4 kilograms is lethal.
The Acer rubrum is one of the most widespread trees in North America and can live to 150 years.
