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.