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Description
Acer Rubrum Var. Trilobum, commonly known as the Red Maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically in the eastern region of the United States and southeastern Canada. The tree can grow up to 30-40 feet tall with a spread of 25-35 feet. It is known for its vibrant red foliage in the fall, making it a popular choice for landscaping and ornamental purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Red Maple has a rounded crown with a straight trunk that can grow up to 3-5 feet in diameter. Its leaves are three-lobed with a serrated edge, and can grow up to 2-6 inches long and wide. The leaves start as a pale green color in the spring, gradually turning into a darker green during the summer. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant red, making the tree a popular choice for ornamental purposes. The Red Maple produces clusters of small red flowers in the spring, which are followed by small red fruits.
Care Guide
The Red Maple requires moderate care and attention. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight exposure. It is tolerant of different soil types but prefers slightly acidic soils. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure that the soil remains moist. Fertilization should be done in the early spring using a slow-release fertilizer. The Red Maple is hardy to zones 3-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Red Maple is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including leafhoppers, scale insects, and verticillium wilt. Leafhoppers can cause leaf curling and discoloration, while scale insects can cause leaf drop and branch dieback. Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that can cause leaf wilting and eventual death of the tree. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Red Maple is native to North America, specifically in the eastern region of the United States and southeastern Canada. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and swamps. It is also commonly used in landscaping and ornamental purposes in residential and commercial areas.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Red Maple?
A: The Red Maple is hardy to zones 3-9.
Q: What type of soil does the Red Maple prefer?
A: The Red Maple prefers moist, well-drained soil and slightly acidic soils.
Q: What is the Red Maple known for?
A: The Red Maple is known for its vibrant red foliage in the fall.
Q: What pests and diseases are common for the Red Maple?
A: The Red Maple is susceptible to leafhoppers, scale insects, and verticillium wilt.
Related Plants
- Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)
- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
- Acer campestre (Hedge Maple)
- Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)
References
- “Acer Rubrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c318.
- “Acer Rubrum.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/red-maple.
- “Acer Rubrum Var. Trilobum.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/133/red-maple.php.
