Choose Red Maple if you want a native shade tree with strong New England character and room to grow. The tradeoff is soil: it does not tolerate alkaline conditions, and seed-grown trees may turn yellow, orange, or red in fall.
Buy This If
You want a native maple.
Your soil runs acidic.
You have room for shade.
Skip This If
Your soil is alkaline.
You need guaranteed red fall color.
Space is limited.
PGNE Report Card
Category
Grade
Why
Landscape Impact
A-
Red Maple gives strong shade and classic New England fall color, though the exact fall tone varies by tree.
Growth Rate
A-
It establishes at a useful pace for homeowners who want shade without waiting decades.
Maintenance
B
It is straightforward on the right soil, but alkaline conditions can create persistent nutrient problems.
Deer Resistance
C
Young trees like this can be browsed or rubbed by deer, so protect it while it establishes where pressure is heavy.
Small Space Fit
D
This is a real shade tree and should not be squeezed into narrow yards or tight planting strips.
Screening Value
C
It can provide seasonal canopy coverage, but it is not the right plant for year-round privacy.
Our Experience
At PGNE, we'd typically recommend Red Maple for larger acidic sites where native character matters. If the customer wants uniform fall color, we steer them toward a named red maple cultivar instead.
Plant Facts
Mature Height
40 to 70 ft.
Mature Width
30 to 50 ft.
Hardiness Zones
3a-9b
Spacing
33 to 50 ft.
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Moisture
Medium to wet
Growth Habit
Medium-sized deciduous tree with a rounded to oval crown
Customers Usually Ask
Will it always turn red in fall?
No. Seed-grown Red Maple can turn red, orange, yellow, or a mix.
Is it good near a driveway?
Only with enough rooting space; avoid tight pavement pockets and alkaline runoff.
Does it handle wet ground?
Yes, it can handle damp soil better than many shade trees.
Why Trees Are a Lasting Investment
Trees bring structure, shade, and long-term value to any landscape. From flowering ornamentals to strong canopy trees, they define property lines, create privacy, and provide cooling relief during the summer months. Over time, trees grow into the most impactful and permanent feature of a landscape, adding both beauty and property value.
Shade & Energy Efficiency - Mature trees reduce summer heat, lower cooling costs, and create comfortable outdoor living spaces.
Long-Term Property - Value Established trees significantly increase curb appeal and overall home value.
Year-Round Landscape - Impact From spring growth to fall color and winter structure, trees provide continuous seasonal interest.
We use your zone to recommend plants that survive your winters, and to estimate when your
order ships — we ship each plant when the weather where you live is right for it.
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Bought 8-10 ft and all were barely 8 if you count the container. Trees are thin and lots of brown branches and broken branches due you thrown in box truck no wrapping or anything. Hoping they survive and thicken up quick…
I went up there today from Quincy MA to pick up two Blue Wichita Junipers and they were absolutely beautiful. Thank you, Chris and everybody from Pro Growers of New England!
I went up there today from Quincy MA to pick up two Blue Wichita Junipers and they were absolutely beautiful. Thank you, Chris and everybody from Pro Growers of New England!
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Aileen Maconi
The plants are beautiful and all 13 were consistent in height and width. And at a fraction of the cost of other garden centers. Having the team that delivered them do the planting was one of the best values I can think of. They did a great job from start to finish and even helped me with my watering system which they didn’t have to do!
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Steve Holsberg
Very nice
Guys installed for me as well
Great job
Steeds Japanese Holly
Carrie Peabody
Huge selection and fast delivery. All plants arrived in great condition.
Pro Growers of New England, Inc
Linda Albert
Great prices and Unbelievable selection of big and small trees, shrubs, and flowering perennials! Nicest folks to work with. And local delivery is awesome! First time purchasing from this company, , and have already told friends, neighbors and family. The owner Chris is professional, knowledgeable, and yet laid back in a most friendly way. Mags in the office will help with any details. My all time BEST garden purchase EVER!