1. Native / Non-native Status
Non-native. Native to eastern and central North America. Introduced to the UK in the 18th century as an ornamental tree, now occasionally planted in parks and large gardens.
2. Evergreen / Deciduous
Deciduous – leaves fall in autumn.
3. Appearance
Leaves: Typically 3–5 lobed, with shallow sinuses (gaps) and finely serrated edges. 5–12 cm long. Glossy green in summer, turning shades of scarlet, orange, and yellow in autumn. Arranged opposite on twigs.
Bark: Smooth and grey on young trees; becoming darker and developing vertical fissures and plates with age.
Flowers/Fruit/Seeds: One of the earliest trees to flower in spring, producing small clusters of red to yellow-red flowers before the leaves appear. Fruits are paired winged seeds (samaras), small and often tinged red.
Overall shape: Medium-sized tree with a rounded or oval crown, often symmetrical in form.
4. Typical Size
17–27 m tall in the UK (up to 30 m in native range); spread usually 8–12 m.
5. Habitat & Range
Occasional ornamental planting across the UK in parks, arboreta, and large gardens. Naturally adapted to a wide range of soils and climates in North America, from wetlands to uplands.
6. Distinctive Features (ID tips)
Red flowers in very early spring.
Winged red samaras.
Striking scarlet autumn foliage.
Leaves smaller and more finely toothed than sycamore or Norway maple.
7. Seasonal Changes
Spring: Clusters of small red flowers appear before leaves.
Summer: Dense canopy of green foliage.
Autumn: Foliage turns brilliant scarlet, orange, or yellow.
Winter: Bare branches, smooth grey bark visible.
8. Human Uses
Popular ornamental tree for autumn colour.
In North America, sometimes tapped for maple syrup (though sugar maple is preferred).
Timber used for furniture, flooring, and veneer.
9. Wildlife Value
Early flowers provide pollen and nectar for bees and insects.
Seeds eaten by birds and small mammals.
Provides nesting sites and cover for birds.
10. Fun Fact / Cultural Note
Named for its red flowers, red seeds, and red autumn foliage.
One of the most widespread and abundant trees in eastern North America.
Frequently used in North American city planting for its adaptability.
11. Planting & Care (Basic Instructions)
Best time to plant: Late autumn or early spring.
Soil: Grows well in moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, or sandy soils; prefers slightly acidic conditions.
Light: Best in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; benefits from extra water in dry summers.
Spacing: 6–10 m apart for specimen trees.
Aftercare: Mulch to conserve moisture. Protect young trees from browsing. Prune lightly in late winter to shape.
12. Good for Urban or Garden Setting?
Urban: Good for streets and parks in suitable soils, though less tolerant of pollution than sycamore or Norway maple.
Garden: Excellent for medium to large gardens as a feature tree, especially for autumn colour. Not ideal for very small gardens.
Great for autumn colour!