Being one of the most common trees in eastern North America, Acer rubrum can thrive in many conditions, even our city pollutants and compact soils. Their root systems are able to adjust depending on the soil conditions. The botanical name, meaning red, refers to its flowers, fruits and twigs. A popular cultivar, ‘October Glory’ shines in the fall with a display of color ranging from red to dark orange and everywhere in between, and lasts for several weeks.

This tree grows rapidly- upwards of two feet a year. The bark of young trees has a grayish hue that darkens with the tree as it ages. Red flowers in the spring appear before the tree begins to leaf out and are frequently visited by butterflies. A great specimen tree, and yes the sap can produce syrup, but not as prolifically as its cousin, the sugar maple.