Acer rubrum 'Armstrong' - Red Maple 'Armstrong'

The 'Armstrong' Red Maple (Acer rubrum 'Armstrong') is an ideal tree for landscaping, distinguished by its slender, upright form that sets it apart from other maples. During the summer season, it boasts attractive green foliage that transforms into a brilliant and spectacular red in the fall. Its vertical stature makes it a perfect choice for restricted spaces and urban environments.

Characteristics

• Foliage : The leaves are lobed, a vibrant medium green during the summer, turning a brilliant and spectacular red-orange to red in the fall.
• Bloom : The Red Maple's bloom is inconspicuous, with small reddish flowers appearing in spring before the leaves emerge. They generally have no major ornamental interest but are an early nectar source for bees.
• Light : Prefers full sun for optimal development and the most intense fall colour. It tolerates partial shade, but fall colours may be less vibrant.
• Habit : Its habit is very narrow, columnar, and upright, with ascending branches. It maintains its vertical form well.
• Growth : Its growth is considered fast to moderate. It reaches a mature height of 12 to 15 metres (40 to 50 feet) and a very limited width, approximately 3 to 5 metres (10 to 15 feet).
• Humidity : Prefers moist to evenly moist soil, but well-drained. It tolerates soil moisture better than other maples, but standing water should be avoided.
• Soil : Adapts to a variety of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic to neutral soils. It is known for its tolerance to urban conditions.
• Temperature : It is a very hardy tree, adapted to cold winters.
• Watering : Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it appreciates soil that remains cool, but it tolerates moderate dry periods.

Uses

• Types of Use : Excellent for planting in urban environments, along streets or narrow driveways where space is limited. Ideal for creating vertical accents in beds, discreet visual screens, or as a shade tree for small properties.
• Decorative Advantages : Its distinctive and slender silhouette adds a touch of modern elegance and structure to the landscape. Its autumn transformation into a flamboyant spectacle of red makes it a major attraction.

Care

• Fertilization : A spring fertilization with a balanced tree fertilizer can promote healthy growth, but is not always necessary in good quality soil.
• Pruning : Requires minimal pruning to maintain its columnar shape. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, ideally in late winter or early spring before leaves emerge. Avoid severe pruning.
• Planting :
  • Distance : For linear planting, space trees about 4 to 6 metres (12 to 20 feet) apart. For an isolated specimen, allow space for its slight spread.
  • Depth : Plant the root ball at the same level as the soil or slightly higher for good drainage.
  • Period : Spring or fall are the best times for planting.