Red Maple (scientific name Acer rubrum) is a large and beautiful maple that offers ample shade. This tree is well-known and valued in Denver for its adaptability. The name comes from the tree’s key ability to grow a red element all year round. It has red buds in the winter, red flowers in the spring, and breathtaking red foliage in the fall.
The tree grows quickly, tolerates an impressive variety of soils, and transplants to other locations easily. Its beauty and ability to survive well in different weather conditions make Red Maple a big favorite in Denver.
Appearance
The Red Maple is a large tree with an oval canopy that provides sizable shade. Mature maples can grow between 40 and 60 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 50 feet.
During spring, before sprouting leaves, the tree grows small red flowers. Each tree can produce all male flowers, all female flowers, or sometimes both. The female flower produces the fruit later in the year.
In the summer, the tree grows deep green leaves with a silver undertone but the stalk and twigs are reddish. The foliage is always lush. The leaves are usually 2 to 4 inches long with 3-5 lobes.
The Red Maple’s bark starts smooth and light gray in younger trees and then matures into a rougher texture with vertical ridges. The tree’s distinctive samaras (winged seeds) are also red.
Why Red Maple Grows Well in Denver
Red Maple thrives in Denver because it adapts well to different soil types, including acidic and slightly alkaline soils. The tree achieves the best soil color in acidic to natural soil pH.
It also adapts well to fluctuating weather conditions. Although Red Maple isn’t native to Colorado, it has established itself successfully in the area. Its introduction to Denver was largely due to its remarkable resilience.
Another reason why Red Maple grows well in Colorado is its ability to tolerate moderate drought conditions (but only when already established). While the tree prefers moist, well-draining soils, it can also adapt to less ideal situations, which include compacted urban soils.
Elevation and Light
Red Maple thrives at elevations below 7,000 feet, making it well-suited for the Denver metro area and surrounding regions. However, as you head west into the Rocky Mountains—where elevations rise and temperatures drop—the tree has a harder time surviving. Cooler temperatures, shorter growing seasons, and drier conditions at higher altitudes limit its ability to take root and flourish.
When it comes to sunlight, Red Maple prefers full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While the tree can tolerate some shade, too much shade can hinder canopy growth and affect foliage color. It performs well in urban environments where it can receive adequate sunlight despite the infrastructure.
Interesting Facts
Some of the interesting facts about Red Maple are:
- Red Maple is one of the most widely distributed trees in North America, growing from Canada down to Florida.
- Red Maple’s nickname is “swamp maple” because it naturally thrives in wet environments.
- Thanks to its durability and fine grain, Red Maple wood is commonly used for furniture, flooring, and even musical instruments.
- The tree provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer
While the tree offers many benefits, it can also present some challenges. Its aggressive root system has the potential to damage sidewalks and driveways. Additionally, Red Maple can be toxic to horses, so careful placement is essential when planting near equestrian areas.
For more information about Red Maple and other trees, please contact our certified arborists today.