Acer, rubrum, October Glory - #10

Size: Large deciduous tree, typically 40-50 feet tall and 30-40 feet wide at maturity.

Branches: Forms a broadly oval to rounded canopy with strong, symmetrical branching for reliable structure.

Leaves: Glossy dark green with reddish petioles, lobed (3-5 lobes), 3-6 inches across, retaining good color into late fall.

Flowers: Produces small, attractive red clusters in early spring before leaves emerge.

Bark: Grayish and smooth when young, becoming furrowed and textured with age.

Habitat:

Highly sought after for its late-season, brilliant deep red to reddish-purple fall color (often one of the last to turn, extending into October or November), fast growth, and adaptability, commonly used as a shade tree, street tree, specimen, or accent in landscapes, parks, large yards, and urban settings, where it provides outstanding autumn drama, pollution tolerance, and reliable performance even in warmer or milder winter climates.

**Tree arrives dormant in 10-gallon pot**

Tree Care:

Planting: Well-draining to moist soil preferred, but highly adaptable; full sun to partial shade, proper spacing (at least 30-40 feet for mature size).

Soil: Tolerates a wide range including clay, loam, sand, wet sites, and occasional drought once established; prefers slightly acidic pH (avoid alkaline soils), amend with organic matter if needed.

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during establishment and in dry periods but avoid prolonged soggy conditions—tolerates brief flooding.

Fertilizing: Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning: Prune in late winter to develop strong structure or maintain shape if needed, especially when young; avoid heavy pruning during active growth.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for issues like aphids, scale, leaf spot, or verticillium wilt and apply controls if necessary.

Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the trunk.

Foliage: Known for its fast-growing, broadly oval to rounded form with glossy dark green summer leaves on red petioles that explode into stunning, persistent deep red to reddish-purple brilliance in late fall, often holding color longer than other red maples for extended seasonal impact.