Maple, Autumn Blaze

Autumn Blaze Maple (Acer × freemanii 'Jeffersred')

Autumn Blaze is a fast-growing cultivated hybrid of red and silver maple. Its broad crown and orange-red to scarlet fall foliage suit a large shade planting where roots and branches have room to develop.

Key Characteristics

A Selected Hybrid with Native Parents

Both parent species are North American natives. This is a named landscape clone, so its selected form and color differ from the variation of a seed-grown native grove. Maple foliage can support moth caterpillars, but Autumn Blaze produces few flowers and seeds; choose it chiefly for shade rather than a heavy wildlife seed crop.

Fast Growth Needs Attention to Structure

Rapid growth does not guarantee storm-resistant branches. Watch for competing leaders and crowded branch attachments while the tree is young, and seek qualified structural-pruning advice as needed. Leave generous clearance from buildings, pavement, and overhead lines.

Keep the Root Zone Healthy

Choose a roomy site with moist, reasonably well-drained soil. Water during establishment and protect roots from repeated traffic or excavation. Fall color and growth vary with weather and site. As a red-maple hybrid, it should be kept away from horse forage and places where wilted leaves or prunings could be eaten.

Product Details

• Origin: Cultivated red maple × silver maple hybrid; not a distinct wild species.
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Medium to medium-wet soil with reasonable drainage.
• Mature height: About 40–55 feet with a broad crown.
• Flowers and seed: Sparse; small spring flowers and occasional winged samaras.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8; exposed northern sites warrant local guidance.

Planting and Ongoing Care

Water the root ball thoroughly at planting, keep mulch away from the trunk or crown, and water through dry spells while roots establish. Check for circling roots before planting and protect the root zone from mowing damage.