SCIENTIFIC NAME: Acer rubrum 'Brandywine'

COMMON NAME: Brandywine Red Maple

GARDEN SIZE: 35-50 feet tall x 25-40 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate to fast

USDA ZONE: 4-9

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

WATER & SOIL: Medium to wet, prefers moist, slightly acidic soils; tolerant of a wide range of soils, including clay

HABIT (FORM): Ovate canopy, large shade tree

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; medium to dark green, 3-5 lobed leaves, brilliant scarlet fall color turning to reddish-purple

FLOWERS: Red, blooms in March (as a male tree, it does not produce fruit)

PLANT ORIGIN: eastern and central North America

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.