Acer rubrum ‘Autumn Flame’ Care Guide

Acer rubrum ‘Autumn Flame’, also known as the Red Maple, is a stunning medium-sized deciduous tree prized for its brilliant scarlet-red autumn colour. Its fresh green summer foliage turns fiery shades of crimson and orange-red each autumn, making it a spectacular feature in gardens and parks. Fast-growing, hardy, and easy to care for, ‘Autumn Flame’ is an excellent choice for those seeking a dramatic seasonal display with minimal maintenance.

Planting & Position

Getting the planting right ensures healthy growth and the brightest autumn colour.

• Light requirements:

  • Best in full sun to light partial shade.

  • Full sun gives the most vivid autumn colours, though the tree tolerates some shade.

• Shelter:

  • Prefers a sheltered position protected from harsh winds, which can damage young shoots and leaves.

• Soil:

  • Thrives in moist, fertile, well-drained soils.

  • Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5–7).

  • Avoid very chalky or alkaline soils, which may cause poor leaf colour and growth.

  • If your soil is alkaline, improve with ericaceous compost at planting.

• Planting time:

  • Plant in autumn or early spring while dormant.

  • Water the rootball well before planting and backfill with organic-rich soil.

• Spacing & size:

  • Grows 12–15 m tall and 8–10 m wide when mature; allow plenty of room for its rounded crown.

  • Best suited to medium or large gardens and parkland.

• Container growing:

  • Possible when young but long-term planting in the ground is recommended for full size and colour.

Care & Maintenance

Once established, Acer rubrum ‘Autumn Flame’ is easy to look after, needing only light seasonal care.

• Watering:

  • Water regularly for the first 2–3 years to help roots establish.

  • Mature trees tolerate some drought but colour best with steady moisture.

  • In very dry summers, deep water every couple of weeks.

• Feeding:

  • Feed in spring with a slow-release fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants to support growth and leaf colour.

  • Mulch annually with compost or leaf mould to improve soil structure and moisture retention.

• Pruning:

  • Minimal pruning needed — the tree forms a beautiful shape naturally.

  • If required, prune only in mid-summer to avoid sap bleeding (maples bleed heavily if cut in late winter/early spring).

  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches as needed.

• Mulching:

  • Apply a wide mulch circle to keep roots cool and moist. Keep mulch a few cm away from the trunk.

• Pests & diseases:

  • Generally pest- and disease-free.

  • May rarely suffer leaf scorch in very hot, dry summers — maintain good watering.

• Hardiness:

  • Fully hardy across the UK and Ireland; tolerates cold winters and urban conditions.

Design Uses & Seasonal Interest

‘Autumn Flame’ is a show-stopping feature tree with dramatic colour and strong structure.

• Feature tree:

  • Perfect as a specimen in lawns, large borders, or parkland settings.

  • Adds height, shade, and a spectacular focal point.

• Seasonal impact:

  • Spring: Fresh green foliage emerges with small red flowers loved by early pollinators.

  • Summer: Dense green canopy provides shade and a cool backdrop.

  • Autumn: Striking fiery scarlet-red leaves create a dramatic seasonal display.

  • Winter: Attractive grey bark and branch structure add interest.

• Companion planting:

  • Pairs beautifully with other autumn stars such as liquidambar, birch, and ornamental grasses.

  • Underplant with spring bulbs or woodland plants for year-round appeal.

• Wildlife value:

  • Flowers provide early pollen and nectar for insects; seeds (samaras) feed birds and small mammals.

In summary: Acer rubrum ‘Autumn Flame’ is a fast-growing, hardy feature tree with outstanding scarlet-red autumn foliage. Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot with moist, slightly acidic soil, water well while young, mulch annually, and prune only lightly in summer if needed. With minimal care, it will reward you with decades of vibrant seasonal colour and elegant shade.

• Size
  10 lt

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