Red Maple — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Acer rubrum |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–30 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 10–21.1 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1825–3650 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 914.4–1828.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 1219.2–1828.8 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 762–1219.2 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Plant in moist, slightly acidic, well-drained to moderately moist soil in full sun for best fall color; red maple is one of the most widely distributed and commonly planted native trees in eastern North America, naturally ranging from Newfoundland to Florida and adaptable to an enormous range of soil moisture conditions from wet bottomlands to dry upland ridges. True to its name, red maple puts on a red display in virtually every season: tiny red flowers cluster on bare branches in late winter (often the earliest tree to bloom), red samaras (winged seeds) ripen in spring, the leaf stalks are red through summer, and fall foliage blazes in brilliant shades of orange-red to crimson. The samaras are consumed by squirrels, grosbeaks, and finches; red maple is also a significant larval host plant for the Cecropia moth and numerous other native insects. With a growth rate of 1.5–2.5 feet per year and wide site adaptability, it is one of the most practical large native shade trees for gardens of all sizes.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0