Red Maple
About this species.
Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is Florida's native maple — surprisingly common in the state's wetter native habitats, and one of the very few species that gives you reliable fall color in Southwest Florida. Mid-tier wind score, moderate lifespan, decent residential shade tree for the right site.
Identification
- Classic 3–5 lobed maple leaves with toothed margins — the iconic palmate maple shape.
- Brilliant red and orange fall color, usually in January–February in Florida (much later than Northern climates).
- Smooth pale gray bark on young trees, becoming furrowed and dark at the base on mature specimens.
- Reddish-tinged twigs and small reddish flower clusters in late winter.
- Rounded oval crown of medium density.
- 40–70 ft typical mature height.
Where you'll see them
Florida wet woodlands, mixed hardwood plantings, riverine and floodplain edges. In residential landscapes, Red Maple is a popular choice for property owners wanting fall color or a recognizable maple silhouette. Common in Sarasota and Manatee residential settings; less common in extreme South Florida due to climate.
Florida-specific care
- Tolerates wet sites better than most species — native to Florida wetlands.
- Best pruning window: late winter, before spring flush.
- Mid-tier wind score (3/5) — better than queen palm, worse than live oak.
- Moderate lifespan: 60–100 years typical in Florida residential settings.
- Florida-native variety is well-adapted to the climate; northern Acer rubrum varieties may struggle with the heat.
- Maple scale and other minor pests are occasional issues but rarely serious.
What to know.
- Standard species-appropriate pruning, watering, and inspection — no special handling required.
Frequently asked.
When does Red Maple turn red in Florida?
Late January through February typically — much later than the September–October fall color you'd see in Northern climates. Florida's mild winters delay the leaf-color change. Some years are more dramatic than others depending on temperature drops; in mild winters, the color shift can be subtle.
Is Red Maple really native to Florida?
Yes. Acer rubrum is one of Florida's most widely distributed native trees, found from the Everglades to the Panhandle in wet woodland and floodplain habitats. The Florida native variety (Acer rubrum var. trilobum) is well-adapted to the heat and humidity that would stress northern varieties.
Will Red Maple work in my dry yard?
It tolerates dry sites once established but performs better with moisture. If your yard is well-drained sandy soil with no irrigation, consider a more drought-adapted alternative (live oak, southern magnolia, or — in zone 10+ — gumbo limbo). For residential yards with normal irrigation or natural water access, Red Maple does fine.
Services for red maples.
The work we do on red maples most often. Each card links straight to the service detail.