Botanical profile

Acer rubrum ‘Red Rocket’

Latin name
Acer rubrum ‘Red Rocket’
Common name
Red Maple 'Red Rocket'
Type
TREE
Family
Sapindaceae

Acer rubrum ‘Red Rocket’ is a highly sought-after ornamental red maple, prized for its flamboyant scarlet-red autumn foliage that instantly transforms beds, pathways, and large gardens in the fall, while offering an elegant architectural presence with its narrow, upright silhouette. In season, its rich green foliage in spring and summer brings freshness and structure, while its decorative samaras add further interest. This hardy tree adapts well to a variety of moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, combining seasonal color, dynamic form, and easy maintenance for both residential and urban landscapes.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Hardiness zones 3–9
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate to regular
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Moist, well-drained
Minimum temperature
-40 °C (-40 °F)
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Subtle red (before leaves)
Fruiting
Decorative Samares
Foliage color
Green → scarlet-red (autumn)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Erect / Columnar
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
9–12 m (30–39 ft)
Width
3–6 m (10–20 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.