The flowers of the red maple are one of the first signs of spring. The profusion of tiny red flowers with the background of smooth gray bark is a beautiful sight. Red maple is also one of the first trees to change color in the fall. Some trees develop a good red fall color, but many of them do not. Several improved varieties of red maple produce outstanding fall color. There are also varieties available with a narrow crown.

Red maple is easy to transplant and grows rapidly. However it is relatively weak wooded and subject to storm damage.

• Maximum height: 90 feet


• Relative growth rate: Excellent


• Freedom from insect pests: Good


• Freedom from disease problems: Good


• Resistance to storm damage: Poor


• Will grow on poorly drained soil: Excellent


• Will grow in hot, dry areas: Poor


• Easy to transplant: Good


• Withstands city conditions: Poor