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Acer rubrum
Acer rubrum
Acer rubrum
Acer rubrum

Acer rubrum

TAXONOMY

FamilySapindaceae
GenusAcer
Zone3

ABOUT

Acer rubrum, commonly known as the red maple, is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America. It is known for its vibrant red foliage in the fall and its adaptability to a wide range of soil types and conditions. The red maple is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of 40-60 feet. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Red Maple
Acer carolinianum
Acer coccineum
Acer drummondii
Acer fulgens
Acer glaucum
Acer hypoleucum
Acer microphyllum
Acer rubrum f. breviramusculum
Acer rubrum f. clausum
Acer rubrum f. columnare
Acer rubrum f. drummondii
Acer rubrum f. microphyllum
Acer rubrum f. pallidiflorum
Acer rubrum f. palmatum
Acer rubrum f. pendulum
Acer rubrum f. rotundata
Acer rubrum f. rubrum
Acer rubrum f. sanguineum
Acer rubrum f. semiorbiculatum
Acer rubrum f. tomentosum
Acer rubrum f. tridens
Acer rubrum f. viride
Acer rubrum f. wagneri
Acer rubrum subsp. carolinianum
Acer rubrum subsp. drummondii
Acer rubrum subsp. microphyllum
Acer rubrum subsp. semiorbiculatum
Acer rubrum subsp. tomentosum
Acer rubrum var. clausum
Acer rubrum var. coccineum
Acer rubrum var. columnare
Acer rubrum var. drummondii
Acer rubrum var. eurubrum
Acer rubrum var. globosum
Acer rubrum var. intermedium
Acer rubrum var. latifolium
Acer rubrum var. pallidiflorum
Acer rubrum var. pallidum
Acer rubrum var. pendulum
Acer rubrum var. rubrocarpum
Acer rubrum var. sanguineum
Acer rubrum var. schlesingeri
Acer rubrum var. stenocarpum
Acer rubrum var. tomentosum
Acer rubrum var. tridens
Acer rubrum var. trilobum
Acer rubrum var. virginianum
Acer rubrum var. viride
Acer sanguineum
Acer semiorbiculatum
Acer splendens
Acer wagneri
Rufacer carolinianum
Rufacer drummondii
Rufacer rubrum

OVERVIEW

WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy4 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Red maples thrive in areas with full sun to partial shade and prefer moderate temperatures. They require regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. These trees are adaptable to various humidity levels but prefer moderate humidity. They are relatively easy to care for but do require some attention to pruning and soil conditions.
Soil
Red maples prefer well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils, but perform best in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal for red maples. Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins and again in late fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Repotting
For young red maples grown in containers, repotting should be done every 2-3 years to accommodate their growing root system. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining soil. Repot in early spring before new growth starts.
Propagation
Red maples can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting. Seeds should be collected in the fall and stratified over winter before planting in the spring. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer and rooted in a moist, well-draining medium.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of red maples. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Toxicity
Red maples are not toxic to pets or humans. However, the leaves can be toxic to horses if ingested in large quantities, causing a condition known as 'red maple toxicosis.'
Additional
Red maples are known for their beautiful fall foliage, which ranges from bright red to orange and yellow. They are also valuable for wildlife, providing food and habitat for various bird species and small mammals.
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