WSU Clark County Extension
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October Glory Red Maple

Scientific name: Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’
Taxonomy
Family:Aceraceae
Type:Deciduous tree
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:5 to 8
Sun:Full sun
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:50 ft
Width:30 ft
Bloom:Spring flowers
Bloom Time:April
Bloom Color:Red
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description The red maple cultivar ‘October Glory’ features bright red to orange fall color during November, lasting several weeks. This is generally the last of red maple cultivars to color up in the fall. The newly emerging leaves and red flowers and fruits are a harbinger of spring.

  Morphology:
This cultivar of Red Maple has an oval to rounded shape and is a fast grower with strong wood, reaching a height of 40’ to 50’ with a mature width of 25’ to 35’ bearing an oval, rounded shape. Glistening dark green leaves are arranged in an opposite fashion. Leaves are ovate in shape and 2” to 4” long.

Showy red fruit appear in May, later attracting many birds and other wildlife.

  Adaptation:
As with other cultivars of red maple, October Glory tree can grow in partial shade though it prefers full sun. This species can tolerate acidic conditions and extended periods of soil flooding.

As with other red maple cultivars, October Glory has thin bark which is susceptible to sun scald. Young trees should be protected with tree wrap when they are young. It can develop surface roots in nearly all conditions.

  Pests:
Tar spots are a minor cosmetic blemish on all red maples. Aphids can easily build up on all red maples but in the Pacific Northwest they rarely become a problem.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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