Red Maple Tree Growth
Red maples (Acer rubrum) are common trees throughout much of the Midwest and northeastern United States. They are medium-sized trees and can grow in a wide range of soil types, moisture regimes and light levels.
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Range
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Red maples are most commonly found in New England, the Mid-Atlantic states, northern Michigan and northeastern Wisconsin. This tree is seldom found farther west and south.
Habitat
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Wet or poorly drained soils are typically preferred; however, red maples can thrive in yards and throughout residential areas.
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Reproduction
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Red maples are one of the earliest trees to begin flowering and seed production, and can produce nearly one million seeds. Seeds appear to germinate most successfully in moist soils with little or no shade; germination begins shortly after seed dispersal.
Growth
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Red maples are fast-growing trees and seedlings can grow nearly one foot in their first year and up to two feet in their second year. Seedlings can survive in shaded conditions but will increase growth rapidly if light becomes available.
Mature Trees
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Mature trees typically live less than 150 years and maturity is reached after 70 to 90 years. They can reach 60 to 90 feet in height at maturity.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Paul Keleher
