Acer rubrum 'OCTOBER GLORY' red maple
size/type
medium-sized tree,medium-sized tree
usual height
9-13m
usual width
4-6m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full to partial sun
soil type
acidic (peaty) to neutral
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Description of the plant:
Red maple is one of the most spectacular big-sized trees suitable for large gardens, parks or city avenues. October Glory is a variety cultivated for its smaller size and fantastic autumn foliage colour. It has mid-sized leaves that are glossy and green in summer, changing to orange and red in early autumn and overall brilliant red later. This colour display remains often until mid November. The tree grows medium fast or fast into a somewhat columnar shape, it does not make a rounded, typical maple-like crown. Branches that grow upright in the crown too close to the trunk should be removed when the tree is young. Select only the branches with a wide angle from the trunk to prevent wind and snow breakage when the tree is mature.
Red maple can take almost any soil, it also withstands clay and wet soil once established. It is wind and air-pollution tolerant. Grow it preferably in sunny location to achieve the best autumn colours. Fully hardy to -30°C (USDA zone 5).
Last update 13-02-2010
