Red maple (Acer rubrum)
Description
The Red maple is a deciduous tree with opposite leaves that have three to five palmate lobes with serrated edges. It has small red clusters of flowers in the early spring, even before the leaves grow. Winged seeds mature and fall during spring and summer. Leaves often have brilliant fall colors.
Gardening Tips
| Care | Known Problems | How to Harvest | Mature Size | Notes/Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The red maple can be planted in a variety of soil types with an acidic or neutral pH; It needs full sun or part shade | In alkaline soil, the leaves may turn yellow; Several insects, such as aphids, borers, and caterpillars can harm the tree; Diseases such as canker, fungal leaf spot, and root rot can also damage red maples; Branches break with strong winds or ice, and the roots may damage cement or asphalt surfaces if planted near them; Leaves are toxic to horses | n/a | height: 40 to 120 feet diameter: 1.5 to 2.5 feet spread: 30 to 50 feet |
The Red maple provides food or habitat for various bees, moths, birds, and squirrels; It is often used in landscaping and gardens and to produce furniture and pulpwood; The sap can be boiled down for syrup; Native Americans used it in food and for medicine |