Autumn Flame Maple

Autumn Flame Red Maple is admired for its rapid growth and fiery red fall display. Its rounded, symmetrical canopy provides excellent shade during the summer months, while in autumn, its foliage transforms into vivid scarlet, often earlier than other red maples. Reaching 40 to 50 feet in height and 35 to 40 feet in width, this deciduous tree makes a striking specimen or shade tree for larger landscapes. It's tolerant of a wide range of soils and adapts well to urban settings, making it both functional and ornamental.

• New leaves have a red color
• Deciduous shade tree
• Fast growth rate with a rounded, symmetrical canopy
• Brilliant scarlet fall foliage that colors earlier than most maples
• Provides excellent summer shade
• Adaptable to various soils and urban environments

Plant Autumn Flame Red Maple in full sun with well-drained soil for the best color and growth. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, this maple is a dependable, show-stopping choice that adds shade and structure to North Texas landscapes.

Autumn Flame Red Maple is loved for its low-maintenance nature, thriving only on little care in landscapes across Texas. Here’s all you need to know:

• Watering: Provide deep, consistent watering during the first several years to establish a strong and stable root system. Mature trees tolerate moderate moisture fluctuations but look best when soil is kept evenly moist, especially during hot spells. Avoid prolonged standing water, which can stress the roots.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove crossing, weak, or storm-damaged branches and to maintain a healthy, rounded structure. Autumn Flame tends to self-shape, so heavy pruning is rarely needed. Avoid pruning during early spring when sap flow is high.
• Fertilizing: A balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring supports vigorous growth and full, dense foliage. Compost added yearly helps maintain soil quality and enhances long-term vitality. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch mulch layer to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and protect shallow feeder roots. Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent bark issues. Refresh annually to maintain healthy soil conditions.
• Winter Care: This cultivar is highly cold-hardy and withstands winter storms with ease once established. Young trees may benefit from temporary protection against strong winds in very exposed sites. Mature trees maintain structure well through winter and display their branching beautifully after leaf drop.

Autumn Flame Red Maple is vigorous and reliable, though a few manageable issues may appear in challenging conditions:

• Leaf Scorch: Browning along leaf edges may occur during extreme heat or drought. Providing consistent watering and light afternoon shade in hot regions helps reduce recurrence.
• Chlorosis: Yellow leaves with green veins often indicate nutrient deficiency in alkaline soils. Applying chelated iron and improving soil balance gradually corrects the problem.
• Aphids: Sticky honeydew or curled leaves signal aphid feeding. Rinse the foliage or use insecticidal soap to restore healthy growth.
• Root Stress: Poorly drained soil can cause wilting or slow growth. Improving drainage and adjusting watering practices support long-term health.
• Powdery Mildew: A white film may appear on leaves in humid or shaded areas. Increase airflow and avoid overhead watering to prevent future outbreaks.