SelecTree: Tree Detail
RED MAPLE
Acer rubrum
Photo Locations: LSU Hilltop Arboretum - Baton Rouge, LA, The National Arboretum - Washington, DC, Finch Arboretum - Spokane, WA and Sacramento State University - Sacramento, CA
General Notes
Provide good drainage in clay soil. Tolerates smog.
Native to Eastern North America.
Trees may be referred to as male or female.
Family: Sapindaceae
Previously listed in the Aceraceae family.
Synonyms
Acer rubrum var. drummondii
Additional Common Names
RED MAPLE, SCARLET MAPLE, SWAMP RED MAPLE
Tree Characteristics
Erect or Spreading with a High Canopy.
Conical or Rounded Shape.
Has Deciduous foliage.
Height: 50 - 65 feet.
Width: 40 feet.
Growth Rate: 36 Inches per Year.
Longevity 50 to 150 years.
Leaves Palmate, Green, Red or Orange, Deciduous.
Flowers Showy. Red. Flowers in Spring. Has either male or female reproductive parts (dioecious). Trees may be sold as male or female.
Red Samara, Large (1.50 - 3.00 inches), fruiting in Summer.
Bark Black or Dark Gray, Exfoliating or Furrowed.
Shading Capacity Rated as Moderate in Leaf.
Shading Capacity Rated as Moderate out of Leaf.
Litter Issue is Dry Fruit.
Tree Site Conditions & Constraints
Sunset Zones 1 - 9 and 14 - 17.
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 - 9.
Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade.
Wet to Moist Soil.
Drought tolerant.
Clay, Loam or Sand Texture.
Highly Acidic to Slightly Alkaline Soil pH.
Salinity Tolerance is Moderate on Coast.
Seaside Tolerance is Good in Mild Zone.
Pests & Disease Information
Susceptible to Aphids, Beetle Borers and Scales, Armillaria, Phytophthora, Root Rot and Verticillium.
Health, Safety & Environmental Concerns
Branch Strength Rated as Medium Weak
Root Damage Potential Rated as Moderate.
Allergy Health Hazard.
Biogenic Emissions considered Moderate.
Desirable Wildlife Plant.
Deer Palatable.
Special Uses & Values
Riparian.
Cite this tree:
SelecTree. "Acer rubrum Tree Record." 1995-2021. Jan 18, 2021.
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/acer-rubrum >
SelecTree Nursery Connection Map
Cal Poly / ESRI