Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple is North America's most abundant native tree — and one of its most spectacular. It earns its name three times over: red flowers in late winter before any leaf appears, red samaras (winged seeds) in spring, and brilliant red-to-scarlet fall foliage that transforms the Louisiana landscape each October. It is the tree that announces every season's arrival, and in the bayou garden, it is an ecological powerhouse from the first warm day of February to the last cold night of December.

Botanical Profile

• Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry family)
• Native Range: Eastern North America from Newfoundland to Florida and west to Minnesota and Texas; one of the most widespread native trees in North America; abundant throughout Louisiana
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
• Mature Size: 40–70 feet tall, 30–50 feet wide
• Bloom Time: January–March (one of the earliest native trees to bloom); samaras ripen April–May
• Sun: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Highly adaptable; tolerates wet, dry, clay, and sandy soils; one of the most adaptable native canopy trees

Ecological Role

Red Maple is one of the most ecologically productive native trees in North America, supporting over 285 species of Lepidoptera caterpillars. Its late-winter bloom — appearing in January and February — is one of the most critical early nectar and pollen sources of the year for native bees, honeybees, and early-emerging butterflies. Its spring samaras are consumed by Evening Grosbeaks, Purple Finches, and squirrels when other food is scarce. Its canopy supports nesting Barred Owls, Red-shouldered Hawks, and dozens of songbird species.

Cultural Heritage

Red Maple's sap was tapped by Indigenous peoples across the Eastern Woodlands for syrup — less sweet than Sugar Maple but still a valued seasonal food. Its brilliant fall color was a seasonal marker for Acadian families, signaling the approach of winter and the time for harvest and preparation. Its wood was used for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments throughout the Cajun country.

In the Living Canopy & Understory

Part of the Jardin — The Living Canopy & Understory collection at Big Mamou Enterprises, Red Maple is the bayou garden's four-season calendar — red in winter, red in spring, green in summer, and blazing red again in fall.