Sun Valley Red Maple

Sun Valley Red Maple - Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley'

zones 4-8

This tree is a cultivar of the native red maple prized for its bright orangey-red fall color. Introduced by the U.S. National Arboretum, it was bred to be a male selection to eliminate fruit production (no helicopter seed here!). It is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, slightly acidic conditions. Sun Valley Maples grows fast, similar to the N. Red Oak, it reaches 21' in the first 10 years of growth and you can expect a mature height of 45-50' with a 35-40' spread. Late winter blooms dot the twigs with red as do the newly emerging leaves. Plant as a specimen tree for your lawn, but do note that the shallow root system can buckle sidewalks or driveways if planted too close.

Currently available in 3 gallon pot for $30 (5' tall)