Red Maple
Deciduous tree growing 12-18 m tall with a rounded to oval crown. Features opposite, simple leaves with 3-5 lobes and serrated edges. Produces small red flowers in early spring before leafing out. Known for brilliant red fall foliage, though color can vary from yellow to orange. Adaptable to various soil conditions, tolerating both wet and dry sites. Important food source for wildlife. Widely used in landscaping for aesthetic appeal and shade. Suitable for urban environments due to pollution tolerance.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Red
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Red flower buds visible in late March. Flowers emerge early-mid April before leaves. Leaves emerge red-tinged in late April, reaching full size by late May. Samaras develop in May, ripening and dropping in June. Fall color begins early, often mid-September, progressing from yellow to brilliant red, with leaves dropping by late October. Red twigs provide winter interest.
Wildlife Value: Important early season nectar source for native bees; seeds eaten by evening grosbeaks, purple finches, and other songbirds; cavity-nesting habitat for birds and mammals; browse for deer and moose
Habit Over Time: A large, upright tree that develops a broad, rounded crown with age. In youth, grows with a strong central leader and balanced branching. While it can create dense shade beneath its canopy, the root system is not particularly aggressive, allowing for understory plantings. May produce abundant seedlings in favorable conditions, but these are easily managed. Branch structure creates interesting patterns in winter, with fine red twigs providing additional visual interest.
Height: Tall (40-70 feet)