Wellfield’s October native plant highlight, the Red Maple, scientifically known as Acer rubrum, is among the most prevalent trees across the country. The genus ‘Acer’ encompasses all maple trees, while ‘rubrum’ translates to red in Latin. While Red Maples are famed for their striking fall foliage, there’s more to them than meets the eye.
One intriguing fact I often share with non-botany enthusiasts is that most plants undergo flowering, albeit some more subtly than others. Red Maples bloom in spring, showcasing red flowers that mirror their autumn leaves. Being wind-pollinated, they don’t rely on insects for fruit production. The winged fruits they produce, often called ‘helicopters’ for their spinning descent, are technically known as samaras. Those of the Red Maple are distinguishable by their unique red hue.
Deciduous plants under stress may exhibit their fall colors and shed leaves earlier than healthy counterparts. Unfortunately, the alkaline soil on our land adds stress to many of our plants. While efforts to amend the soil have benefited some, many remain stressed. The silver lining is that some of our Red Maples may change color earlier, followed by healthier trees, providing us with two captivating displays. Our least healthy Red Maple, evident from its yellow summer leaves due to alkaline soil, is already transitioning to red.
Hardwood trees prevalent in the eastern forests of the U.S. are valued for their sturdy wood, offering various applications due to their durability. However, unlike its cousin, the sugar maple, the red maple lacks the strength required for furniture and cabinetry. Consequently, the wood of the red maple is sometimes referred to as “soft maple.”
Native to our region and approximately half of North America, the red maple is a common sight in neighborhoods, often planted as a street tree. Its sizable stature allows it to grow over roads without obstructing traffic, unlike smaller trees that require regular pruning. While all red maples boast stunning red fall foliage, certain cultivars exhibit unique characteristics, such as columnar growth habits and distinct leaf color transitions. At Wellfield, the Red Sunset cultivar is prevalent, promising a spectacular display as the leaves change color. If you have the opportunity to visit during this time, you’re in for a treat!
