Acer rubrum - Maple

Acer rubrum, also known as the Red Maple, is a species native to the Northeastern United States. It is primarily distinguished by the spectacular colour of its foliage in autumn, red at the first signs of cold. Its flowers, petioles, and fruits are also red. This medium-sized tree, with relatively rapid growth, reaches approximately 15m (49 ft 2 in) in height. It has a very dense conical habit. Hardy and easy to maintain, it thrives in urban environments and will flourish in deep and cool, even moist soil. It will be magnificent when planted as a standalone, where it will be appreciated for the beauty of its autumn foliage and its pleasant shade.

Native to the Northeastern United States and Canada, the Acer rubrum is known by different names depending on the region, such as Canadian Maple, Red Maple, or Virginia Maple. It is a large forest tree of the family Aceraceae that can reach a height of 30m in its native environment. This light and semi-shade species can live up to 200 years. Its wood is commonly used in furniture making.

The Acer rubrum has a conical shape with a rounded and dense crown. The deciduous foliage is composed of large palmate leaves divided into 3 to 5 pointed, dentate lobes, approximately 10cm (3.9 in) in length, carried on red petioles. Upon budding, the green leaves are tinged with red. They become bright green in summer, and in autumn, they blaze with a bright scarlet red that can be seen from afar. Flowering occurs in March, before the leaves appear. The small red flowers are highly fragrant, attractive to bees and arranged in pendulous terminal clusters. The abundant fruiting is in the form of reddish fruits with two wings called samaras. It only appears on specimens aged at least 20 years and is loved by squirrels. The bark of the branches is grey to dark red. As it ages, it becomes dark grey and flakes off in large plates.

Acer rubrum is a vigorous tree, perfectly resistant to severe frost. It thrives in deep and cool soil, preferably acidic and clayey, where its autumn colours will be much more intense. A well-established specimen can tolerate poor and rocky soils, but limestone soils should be avoided. Planted as a standalone in a medium to large park or garden, it will be majestic. It is an excellent shade tree thanks to its dense foliage. It can also be integrated into a loose hedge.

Attention: Although appetizing, the leaves of the Red Maple are highly toxic to horses.