SCIENTIFIC NAME: Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley'
COMMON NAME: Sun Valley Red Maple
GARDEN SIZE: 20-35 feet tall x 15-25 feet wide
GROWTH RATE: Fast
USDA ZONE: 4-7
EXPOSURE: Full Sun
WATER & SOIL: Medium to wet, prefers moist, slightly acidic soils; tolerant of a wide range of soils, including clay
HABIT (FORM): Oval, symmetrical, densely branched
FOLIAGE: Deciduous; dark green, turning bright red in fall
FLOWERS: Showy clusters of red flowers. Blooms in March, but does not produce samaras (seedless/fruitless).
PLANT ORIGIN: eastern and central North America (cross between Acer rubrum Red Sunset and Acer rubrum Autumn Flame)
WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.
FERTILIZING: May apply organic compost in the spring, but not generally necessary.
PRUNING: No pruning is necessary. If shaping is desired, may be trimmed during dormancy.
TOXICITY FLAGS: Generally non-toxic for dogs and cats, but exercise caution with horses because the leaves of Acer rubrum are toxic to them.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Acer rubrum has a flattened root system that may buckle sidewalks or driveways if planted too close. Also take care not to plant near foundation for this same reason.