Acer rubrum 'Franksred'
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RED SUNSET MAPLE
Family: Aceraceae
Pronounced: AY-ser ROO-brum
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Trees.
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Mature size: Height: 45 feet (13.7 m). Width: 35 feet (10.6 m).
Leaf attributes: Leaves are 3- to 5-lobed, ovate and glossy green. Color turns bright orange-red to red in early fall.
Light: Full sun.
Soil: Moist, slightly acidic soil.
Feeding: Not necessary.
Propagation Methods: Softwood cuttings.
Pruning Methods: Prune to shape in late fall to winter.
Pests and Diseases: Bladdergall mites and borers may cause problems.
Rainy Side Notes
Acer rubrum ‘Red Sunset is considered one of the best of all the red maples, especially for its bright red fall colors. In 1966, J. Frank Schmidt & Son Company introduced it to the nursery trade, In 1975, the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center in Wooster rated it the number one shade tree in the U.S. Highly adaptable, it grows relatively fast and has a smooth silver-gray trunk and round-shaped canopy, which makes this a great specimen tree for the garden.
I see it growing in the Pacific Northwest; every autumn, it’s an attention grabber. “Look at me!” the color appears to shout. One downfall—brittle branches—means it’s not recommended for areas where ice storms are common.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed at Valley Nursery, Poulsbo, Washington.
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