Search

Red Maple

Red Maple Acer rubrumThe red maple (Acer rubrum) grows well on a wide range of soil types. It is fast growing and grows to a height of 50 to 70 feet tall.

Habitat: Grows on wooded bluffs in extreme northeast Iowa.

young red maple tree in the fall with yellow leaves
Red Maple - Photo by Paul Wray, Iowa State University

Hardiness: Maples vary in hardiness. Most fall into zones 4 through 8, but some are less tolerant of cold or heat than others. When selecting a maple tree, be sure to select a species suited for Iowa's weather.

Growth Rate: Maples vary in growth rate. Maples that are fast growing tend to have weak wood and may suffer from wind and ice damage. Slower growing Maples have heavier, harder wood, making them less susceptible to branch and limb drop.

Mature Shape: Maples typically have a large, rounded crown. Tree canopies may be very dense or wide spreading.

Height: Mature height varies with species.

Width: Width varies with species.

Site Requirements: Maple trees perform best in moist, well-drained soils. Site requirements vary with the species of maple.

Leaves: Opposite simple

Flowering Dates: March - May

Seed Dispersal Dates: April - June

Seed Bearing Age: 4 years

Seed Bearing Frequency: Yearly

Seed Stratification: No stratification period is needed.

The leaves are arranged opposite on the twigs. They are broadly ovate with 3 shallow short-pointed lobes turning red, orange, and yellow in the autumn. The lobes sinuses are sharp, with toothed margins.

The fruit is a v-shaped samara (winged seed). The twigs are shiny red with numerous small lenticels.

red red maple flowers
Red Maple Flowers - Photo by Paul Wray, Iowa State University

Diseases that Can Affect Red Maple

Pests that Can Affect Red Maple

red maple twig
Red Maple Twig - Photo by Paul Wray, Iowa State University

red maple leaves
Red Maple Leaves - Photo by Paul Wray, Iowa State University