SCIENTIFIC NAME: Acer rubrum 'October Glory'
COMMON NAME: October Glory Red Maple
GARDEN SIZE: 40-50 feet tall x 30-40 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 triangular lobed leaves, turning brilliant orange to red in fall
FLOWERS: Showy; clusters of red flowers, blooms in March
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.