Description of the Red Maple Tree

Red maples are typically identified by their bright-red foliage in the fall.

The red maple, or Acer rubrum, is a deciduous tree--it loses its leaves for the winter. The red maple, also called scarlet maple and swamp maple, gets its name from the bright-red color of the fall leaves. These hardy tree grows in a multitude of conditions across half of the United States, and it creates beautiful scenery.

Habitat

Red maple trees grow predominately along the eastern coast of North America, surviving a multitude of conditions. These trees grow, however, in a large area, reaching as far over as Texas and Florida in the south, and up to parts of Nova Scotia in the north. This tree can survive temperatures up to 100 degrees Fahreneheit and as low as 40 F. Within the wide range of temperatures, the red maple will thrive in a myriad of soils. It may be growing on a dry hill in one area and a swamp in another. Typically, more red maples grow in swampy, northern regions.

Description

Red maple trees are marked by their bright-red appearance. The leaves turn red during fall and the tree's twigs are glossy-red in the spring. Fruits and flowers are also red. When the leaves aren't red, their color is a medium green on top and pale green on the underside. The red maple also produces red flowers and fruit, which is called samara. Flowers will grow in little red clusters from branches; yellowing is normal. The fruit will grow from pink, red, or yellow colored wing-shaped leaves. The wood of a red maple isn't red, but it can be bled for red dyes. Bark is grayish but smooth in younger trees. Older maples have darker, rough bark.

This tree has a reputation for rapid growth, commonly taking over a site. Height is typically 40 to 60 feet, but some measure at heights above 90 feet. New trees can be grown from stump sprouts or seeds. Pollination can occur by wind or water.

Uses

The red maple is predominantly used as a landscaping tree but it also provides resources for furniture (as a soft wood) and food. According to the USDA Forest Service, the sweetness, quality, and flavor of the syrup is virtually the same in the red maple as in the traditional sugar maple. Red maples should be tapped for syrup when the weather has warmed after a hard freeze, and only if the trunk is 1 1/2 feet in diameter.

Care

Red maples have been growing through North America since the 17th century, coloring the east coast. These hardy, vibrant trees can easily be landscaped into your yard as well. Plant red maple trees during the spring. Neutral to slightly acidic soil is ideal; avoid high alkalinity. Make sure to keep your soil moist, especially for transplants and during the summer. Adding a layer of mulch will help preserve moisture. Fast Growing Trees Nursery recommends using time release fertilizers.

Pests and Diseases

Insects aren't a major issue with red maples--most are beneficial. Some help with pollination while many caterpillars and moths help to deter competition trees. Deer and rodents may try feeding on young saplings, though.

The most common problem with red maple is fungi. This is especially true for the ones in swamp regions. A variety of mushrooms and parasitic fungi can attack these trees.

References

• Fairfax County Public Schools: Study of Northern Virginia Ecology: Red Maple
• USDA Forest Service: Northeaster Area: Red Maple
• Fast Growing Trees Nursery: Red Maple Planting Instructions