Acer Rubrum ‘October Glory’ (R) 15 Gal

Red Maple 'October Glory®'
Acer rubrum 'PNI 0268' PP2116

Exceptional crimson-red fall foliage. A tall form with a dense, rounded crown and large, medium green leaves in spring and summer. Foliage is held on the tree later into fall than with most cultivars. A superb choice as a high profile specimen or shade tree for larger landscapes. A selection from our beloved WNC native red maple species.

In autumn, the October Glory® transforms into a stunning display of bright orange to deep reddish-purple hues, even in warmer regions. Notably, its foliage stays on the tree longer than most red maple cultivars, extending the season’s colors. In early spring, small, attractive red flowers appear, followed by red-tinged samaras that add subtle yet charming details to the tree.

Moreover, these trees are pollution-tolerant and thrive in urban environments, which makes them a popular option for street planting and public spaces. They adapt well to a variety of soil types, including nutrient-poor soils. However, they prefer slightly acidic, well-drained conditions for optimal growth. With their moderate to fast growth rate, October Glory® Red Maples quickly establish themselves as prominent and reliable landscape features.

⭐October Glory® Red Maples are on the City of Asheville Recommended Tree Species List (2022).

They are ideal for many gardens, including: Butterfly Gardens, Children's Gardens, Drought Tolerant Gardens, Native Gardens, Pollinator Gardens, Rain Gardens, Wildlife Gardens, Winter Gardens, and more.

🦋Help pollinators: these trees are very helpful to bees and butterflies.

🐦Help birds: According to the Audubon Society, Red Maples can provide food and shelter to Cardinals, Chickadees, Crows, Finches, Mocingbirds, Nuthatches, Blackbirds, New World Sparrows, Thrushes, Vireos, Waxwings, Wood Warblers, Wrens, and more.

🦌Deer resistant: Red Maples aren't at the top of the deer menu, but if you have many deer, consider protecting trees when young.

🌳Juglone resistant: These trees can be planted near Black Walnut trees.

Full sun. 

50’T x 40’W. 

Zones 4-9, cold hardy down to -30F.

💚Plant Nerd: Just like Sugar Maples, Red Maples can be tapped for their sugar in late winter as they start to wake up. However, they will provide approximately 1/2 the amount one could harvest from a Sugar Maple.

For happy trees, fertilize in spring with Espoma Tree-Tone organic fertilizer.