Red Maple
Acer rubrum
Overview
One of the most common and adaptable native maples in Eastern Ontario. Valued for early spring flowers and brilliant fall color.
Red maples have expanded their range as they thrive in disturbed areas and tolerate a wide range of conditions.
Identification
Leaves
Medium-sized leaves with 3-5 shallow lobes and V-shaped sinuses. Leaves have whitish undersides and turn brilliant red, orange, or yellow in fall.
Bark
Young bark is smooth and light gray, becoming darker and developing long, narrow scaly ridges with age.
Flowers
Small red flowers appear very early in spring before leaves, giving branches a reddish tinge. One of the first trees to bloom.
Fruit
Paired samaras (winged seeds) mature in late spring to early summer, earlier than most other maples. Red when young, turning brown.
🦆 Valuable wildlife food source
Growing Conditions
Climate
Highly adaptable to Eastern Ontario climate. Tolerates both wet and moderately dry conditions.
Hardiness Zones: 3, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b
Light Requirements
Soil
Moisture: moist, wet
Drainage: well-drained, moderate, poor
pH Range: 4.5 - 7
Tolerance
Care & Maintenance
Pruning
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Frequency: Minimal once established
- Prune in late fall through winter to avoid sap bleeding
- Remove crossing branches when young
- Watch for included bark in branch unions
Avoid: Late winter through spring when sap flows heavily
Watering
Establishment: Regular deep watering for first 2 years
Mature: Tolerates wet conditions naturally
Seasonal Care Timeline
Spring
- Very early flowering attracts attention
- Seeds germinate prolifically - may need seedling control
- Watch for gall mites
Summer
- Leaf scorch possible in hot, dry conditions
- Monitor for signs of Verticillium wilt
Fall
- Brilliant fall color - peak viewing
- Heavy leaf drop
Winter
- Susceptible to ice storm damage
- Protect young trees from sunscald
Common Issues
Verticillium Wilt
SevereFungal disease affecting vascular system
Symptoms: Wilting on one side of tree, Branch dieback, Olive to brown streaks in sapwood
Treatment: Prune affected branches, improve tree vigor
Prevention: Avoid planting in previously infected soil
Professional arborist recommended
Maple Bladder Gall
LowSmall pouch-like galls on leaves caused by mites
Symptoms: Small red to green bladder-like growths on upper leaf surface
Treatment: No treatment needed - cosmetic only
Prevention: Maintain tree health
Quick Facts
When to Call an Arborist
Recommended inspection: Every 2-3 years for mature trees
- •Large sections of crown wilting or dying
- •Multiple dead branches
- •Significant lean or root heaving
- •Fungal conks on trunk
Free consultation for Belleville residents
Recommended Services
Based on Red Maple characteristics