Acer Rubrum

Description

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Acer Rubrum (Red maple) or swamp maple is native to Eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Florida. It is an attractive, deciduous, erect, medium-sized tree. It is well adapted to a range of soil conditions and grows in open sun or partial shade. Red maple does well in sites that are either well-drained or moist. The tree has a smooth gray bark when young, but the bark becomes dark and cracked when mature. Also, the leaves are 2 inches (5.08 cm) to 4 inches (10.16 cm) long with 3 to 5 lobes and serrated margins. 

Depending upon the trees’ location, its leaves in the fall become yellow or red. Its twigs are reddish, which may account for the common name. Acer Rubrum (Red maple) has few pest problems, but is vulnerable to fire.  

Trees mature in about 10 years and bear distinctive maple tree family winged seeds (samaras) for a period of 1 to 2 weeks. The seeds are less than 1 inch (2.54 cm) long. For propagation purposes, seeds must are necessary. They also provide food for birds and squirrels. In addition to general landscape use, Red Maple is a good tree for revegetation of degraded areas. The wood is an undesirable lumber source but fine for firewood.