Red maple serves as a foundational shade tree, delivering vibrant color from the first signs of spring through the end of autumn. We offer this species as bareroot stock, ideal for dormant planting in late fall and early spring before top growth begins. This format is particularly cost-effective for restoration projects or larger landscape installations where establishing a pioneer species is the goal. Known botanically as Acer rubrum, this native tree plays a crucial role in local ecosystems as a pioneer species, often being one of the first to regenerate in a succession toward forest. It supports a wide range of biodiversity, notably serving as a host for various inchworms and moths, including the cecropia moth, North America’s largest native moth. This species thrives in moist to wet locations, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, low-lying areas, or riparian buffers. It requires consistent moisture and should not be planted in drought-prone sites. Red maple is hardy in zones 3–9 and performs best in full sun, though it tolerates partial shade. At maturity, it reaches 40–90 feet in height with a spread of 30–50 feet. Planting bareroot trees allows for direct contact with native soil, helping the tree integrate into its permanent location efficiently. When sited in appropriate moisture conditions, this adaptable grower establishes readily.
