City Trees is a premier publication focused on urban + community forestry. In each issue, you’ll learn how to best manage the trees in your community and more!
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/36513
R ed maple (Acer rubrum) is native to eastern North America and is commonly seen grow- ing within natural wooded areas along roadsides. Consistent performance of this species within urban areas may best be achieved through the use of cultivars. Many red maple cultivars have been developed that provide options for urban foresters. Red maple is hardy from USDA Zones 3 to 9. Over a span of two decades, it has been the quest of this Savannah, Georgia urban forester to find, through field trials on our City’s streets, cul- tivars that perform well in the heat of the coastal Southeast (USDA Zones 8B/9A). Over the years, the list of contenders has been narrowed consid- erably. ‘Summer Red’ red maple is one cultivar that has proven itself worthy. ‘Summer Red’ has an upright branch habit and broad oval shape, with a mature size of 50 feet (15.2 m) in height and 40 feet (12.2 m) in width. During the growing season, new foliage emerges dark red to burgundy in color. As foliage matures, it becomes dark green, with a light green under- side. In the fall, the foliage turns to yellow before leaf drop. This cultivar does not offer the spectac- ular fall color display we might generally envision for red maple. Rather, the name ‘Summer Red’ is fitting: During spring and summer months, mature dark green foliage contrasts nicely with the burgundy new growth at the branch tips. Newly planted trees establish rapidly and require some periodic pruning to develop and maintain good structure. Close attention to branch and root structure quality when selecting trees in the nursery will pay dividends. Although fairly resis- tant to pests, scale insect problems can develop, so inspect twigs and branches closely for scale when scouting. The upright branch habit of ‘Summer Red’ works well for planting along city streets, and we have found it to be a consistently reliable performer. Discovering overlooked tree species and new cul- tivars is part of the fun and excitement of urban forestry. What works in Savannah, Georgia may not work in your locale. New tree introductions (left) ‘Summer Red’ red maples in Savannah, Georgia www.urban-forestry.com New growth on Acer rubrum ‘Summer Red’ help improve diversity and capture the atten- tion of local garden clubs, non-profits, and land- scape enthusiasts, which can ultimately lead to increased support for local programs. There are some great wholesale tree nurseries out there that continually strive to improve their offerings and that welcome the opportunity to prove new introductions in an urban setting. Such nurseries are often willing to donate a few trees for a local field trial. Over time, you will discover new trees that perform well in your area and offer you a more diverse palette. The City is your canvas— create your masterpiece! —Bill Haws, Forestry Administrator for the City of Savannah Park & Tree Department, Savannah, Georgia 39