Redpointe® Red Maple

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

40 - 45 Feet

Mature Spread

20 - 30 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Redpointe® red maple is an easy-care cultivar with deep green foliage that turns to a fiery red just before leaf drop in the fall. Also known as Acer rubrum Redpointe® ‘Frank Jr.’, it produces insignificant flowers early in the spring that attract bees and other pollinators. In the summer, songbirds make themselves at home in the dense canopy of foliage. 

Upright Maple trees provide quick growth and brilliant color for medium and large-sized gardens. Redpointe® makes an excellent shade tree near the house or along a property line or driveway. The root system is much less invasive than other maple varieties, allowing this tree to be used as a street tree along a sidewalk or roadway. The branch structure is naturally angled to create a sturdy canopy that is more resistant to heavy winds and storm damage. Redpointe® is deer and rabbit resistant, although temporary protection for the trunk may be necessary until the tree is 6 feet high or more. Pests and diseases are not a problem for Redpointe® red maple. 

Redpointe® Red Maple Care

Redpointe® red maple prefers full sun exposure and well-draining soil; it is adaptable to different soil pH levels. Choose a planting location at least 20 feet from the house or garage, as the canopy will grow to 20-30 feet. Maple trees need regular moisture even after establishment. Mulching annually over the root zone will improve moisture retention. Ensure that the mulch material stays away from the base of the trunk and the root flare to prevent rot in the future. Where possible, use drip irrigation or soaker hoses, which keep water from soaking the trunk of the tree. 

Redpointe® red maple has a strong single leader and naturally angled branches that form a compact pyramidal shape, so minimal pruning is required. Prune any damaged branches at the time of planting, as damaged growth is more likely to attract pests and disease. Any future pruning should be done when the tree is still dormant before the sap begins to rise. Pruning in late winter is ideal because the branches are bare and completely visible. 

Dig a planting hole the same size as the root ball. There is no need to plant trees deeper than the root flare, and doing so will shorten the life expectancy of the tree. Place the root ball in the hole so that it is slightly above the soil surface. Backfill with the native soil and water well to make sure there are no large air pockets near the roots. Fertilizer can be added as a top dressing after planting. 

Redpointe® Red Maple Spacing

The mature size of Redpointe® red maple is 40-45 feet with a canopy spread of 20-30 feet. Provide a minimum of 20 feet between the tree and any building foundations or overhead utilities. Shade-loving perennials and annuals can be planted under this tree.