Red Maple Tree (Acer rubrum) bursts onto the scene with lovely red buds in late winter, followed by bright red flowers just as spring awakens. Through summer, its glossy green leaves provide a refreshing canopy, only to transform into dazzling shades of scarlet and orange in fall, delivering that iconic autumn show. Fast growth and a broad, oval shape make this native tree a sought-after choice for creating quick shade or an unforgettable seasonal spectacle. It adapts well across much of North America and stands out for its strong trunk, smooth bark when young, and attractive samaras (winged seeds) loved by local wildlife.
Red Maple thrives in soils ranging from clay to sandy loam, as long as moisture remains consistent and drainage is adequate. As a habitat hero, it welcomes squirrels, songbirds, and beneficial pollinators that flock to its early blooms. Deer and rabbits often browse the tender shoots, but mature trees are generally resilient. Use it for a stately focal point on your lawn, group multiple trees for a miniature woodland retreat, or line a driveway for a breathtaking fall corridor. With its robust trunk and wide-reaching crown, it combines effortless beauty with proven adaptability.
Red Maple Tree Care
Select a site with average to moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Full sun is ideal for the brightest foliage color, though part shade works in hotter regions. Provide regular watering for newly planted trees, ensuring the root ball never dries out completely. As the tree matures, weekly deep soakings are beneficial during extended dry spells. An all-purpose fertilizer applied in early spring can boost growth, but established maples often perform well without extra feeding.
Prune in late winter or early spring, avoiding the high-sap-flow period if possible. Lightly remove crossing or damaged branches to maintain a healthy structure. For container-growing in cooler zones, choose a deep pot and watch for root crowding, as Red Maples become large over time. Winter care may include mulching around the base for young trees to protect roots from extreme cold.
Red Maple Tree Spacing
When planting a row or grouping, allow about 25 to 30 feet between each tree to accommodate their full, spreading crown. For a single specimen near a home or sidewalk, leave 35 feet of clearance from the foundation or pavement. If starting in a container, choose one that’s at least 18 inches in diameter, sizing up as the tree’s root system expands.
- SKU:
- 1231015512-pc
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Quart Pot
Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

2.5 Quart
Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

#1 Pot
Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

#2 Pot
Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

#3 Pot
Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

#5 Pot
Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

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Pre-Ordered Plants
Pre-ordered plants are scheduled to ship in Spring 2025. We carefully plan our shipping dates based on your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to ensure optimal planting conditions upon arrival. Want it sooner/later? Reach out, and we'll try our best to accommodate.
Estimated Spring Shipping Schedule
Estimated ship week for pre-ordered plants will ship based on growing zones as shown below.
Growing Zone | Estimated Ship Week |
---|---|
Zone 10 | March 24th |
Zone 9 | March 31st |
Zone 8 | April 7th |
Zone 7 | April 14th |
Zone 6b | April 21st |
Zone 6a | April 28th |
Zone 5b | May 5th |
Zone 5a | May 12th |
Zone 4 | May 19th |
Zone 3 | May 26th |
Note: These are only estimated ship dates. Plants may ship out later depending on weather & growing conditions of the plant.
Note: Only plants indicated as pre-order will ship as shown above. All other plants and hard goods will ship as normal.
Plants Shipping Now
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.