Red Sunset® Maple Tree

Name: Red Sunset® Maple Tree
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 16406
Price: 94.41 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.75 (12 reviews)

Acer rubrum 'Franksred'

Brilliant Red Foliage from Spring Blooms Through Fiery Fall Color Display
Thrives in Zones 3-9
Grows 40-50 ft Tall, 30-40 ft Wide
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees and Butterflies

$94⁴¹

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Plant Size

#3 Container | 4-5 ft

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Attracts Birds, Cold hardy, Deer-resistant, Disease resistant, Drought resistant, Fall Color/Interest, Fast-growing, Full Sun, Heat Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Native, Non-invasive, Ornamental Berries/Fruit
Hardiness Zone	3a to 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	40-50 ft
Width	30-40 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Red
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Maple
Botanical Name	Acer rubrum 'Franksred'
Species	rubrum
Cultivar	Franksred
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR, VI

Stunning Fall Color Red Sunset® Maple Tree

Outstanding Red Color
Spring & Fall Display
Fast-Growing
Strong Limbs

If you want a tree with absolutely stunning fall color, take a good look at the Red Sunset® Maple tree (Acer rubrum 'Franksred')! This is a Red Maple tree to love all year round. In early spring, bright red flower buds appear on the branches before the foliage appears. They'll open into tight clusters of red flowers.

Following the flowers, the new leaves have a slight red overlay. Even the new growth leaves and twigs are tinted red before the star-shaped, glossy leaves mature into a medium to dark green. This gives the tree a fresh, cool summer look.

But everybody knows you plant a Red Sunset® for the spectacular, super early orange-red to brilliant red color display in fall. The Red Sunset® colors up earlier than most, and that incredible color lasts and lasts, giving you a wonderful backdrop for football watch parties.

The Red Sunset® Maple is well known as one of the very best cultivars for fall color. When this plant was introduced, it became the most desirable Maple and remains top-notch today!

When fall arrives, prepare yourself for one of the most spectacular autumn displays you'll ever witness. It's been described as the color of a glowing flame!

Order this tree and get ready for a superior fall display! You surely deserve it.

How to Use Red Sunset® Maple in the Landscape

This variety of Red Maple is an outstanding choice for any landscape. It's tall and strong with brilliant red colors in the fall for an extended time. Red Sunset® has become a go-to for many landscape architects and landscape companies.

Plant one as a focal point in your front yard, or place one in sight of a window where it can draw your eye to the brilliant color of its long fall display.

Try planting an informal grouping of Red Sunset® as an effective focal point at the back end of your yard. Best to use an odd number of trees in this case and create a natural group by planting along a gentle, meandering curve. You'll love looking out at your trees from a comfy deck chair.

We recommend planning ahead for nighttime enjoyment. Run electricity to the grouping, so you can place exterior uplights underneath the grouping. Position the lights so they'll shine them up into the canopy.

This tree is wonderful as a shade tree in the front or backyard. The well-balanced branch structure gives it a dignified look in your landscape all year long.

Like all Maples, its roots love water. Use it in a Rain Garden to help capture water from runoff. Plant at least 50 feet away from sewers and water mains.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Young plants have a fantastic pyramidal form, especially when young. As the plant matures, it will develop into a pleasingly rounded outline. These pretty trees are tough, too. Many municipalities use them as street trees regularly.

The leaves of this Maple are smaller than many other Maple varieties. The dark green top surface of the leaves contrasts nicely with the silvery underside of the leaves.

It's a fast-growing tree but still has stronger wood than other selections, tolerating wind better. There are no significant diseases or insect issues with Red Sunset® once it is established. it's relatively pest-free in most areas and becomes quite adaptable to most areas after it has been established.

Plant Red Sunset® Maple in full sun for even uniform growth and superior fall color. They can tolerate part shade, but the fall color will always be best when grown in more sun.

They enjoy a rich, slightly acidic soil that is evenly moist and well-drained, but once established this plant becomes tolerant of drier soils too.

Tall and strong with brilliant color, Red Sunset® Maple Tree is an outstanding choice. Order today!

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Plant this tree where it will receive a minimum of six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily for best results. Although it tolerates partial shade, the glorious red fall color will be significantly muted, appearing a less intense yellow-orange.
Soil: The Red Sunset Maple thrives in moist, rich, and slightly acidic soil that drains well. If you have heavy clay, deeply amend the planting area with generous amounts of compost and peat moss to improve drainage and help lower the pH. For sandy sites, incorporating organic matter will be critical to retain the moisture and nutrients the tree needs.

Watering Requirements

For the first two growing seasons, focus on deep, consistent watering, providing a slow soaking once or twice a week until the top couple of inches of soil are dry. This establishes a robust root system capable of supporting the mature tree. While established Red Sunset Maples are moderately tolerant of drought, inconsistent watering will lead to leaf scorch, premature leaf drop, and stress, particularly during a hot summer. Provide supplemental water during extended dry spells.

Pruning Tips

Since this tree is grown for its form and foliage rather than specific flowers, pruning should be done in late winter before the sap begins to run in early spring. Trimming at this time prevents the significant "bleeding" that can weaken the tree and attract insects. Your goal is to establish a strong, central leader and remove any broken, dead, or crossing branches to build a healthy canopy structure that will be stable as it matures.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a granular, balanced, slow-release fertilizer like a 10-10-10 specifically formulated for trees and shrubs in early spring, just as the buds begin to swell. Do not use high-nitrogen fertilizers after mid-July; this late application will stimulate tender, new growth. That soft wood will not have adequate time to harden off before winter, leaving the branch tips highly vulnerable to cold damage and dieback.

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Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.

Tree

Tree looks healthy except for a couple leaves on top.

Red Sunset Maple is a vigorous grower, so a few off-color or damaged leaves at the tips are usually not cause for concern, especially if the rest of the canopy looks good. Keep an eye on those top leaves as the tree settles in, and make sure it gets consistent moisture through the first season. If anything changes or spreads, our team is happy to take a look. Thanks for the update. -The Nature Hills Team

Late Bloomer

So far so good! The tree arrived looking like a stick stuck in a dirt ball. I got it planted and waited for spring. It still looked like a stick until about three weeks ago, when leaves started popping out.

Red Sunset Maple has a way of making you sweat it out before it takes off, so those three weeks of waiting with a bare stick in the ground must have felt long. Glad it finally woke up and started leafing out. As it settles in through the season, you should see the root system really establish, and come fall that foliage will make the wait feel well worth it.

I was so impressed with

I was so impressed with the tree when delivered. It was packaged so well as to not be damaged. Also, the quality was excellent. Look forward to seeing this beautiful tree grow! I will definitely order from Nature Hills again.

Hello Sherry,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! We're thrilled to hear that your tree arrived safely and in excellent condition, especially knowing that our careful packaging helped keep it pristine. It’s always exciting to see our customers look forward to nurturing their new plants, and we’re delighted you’ll be watching your tree thrive. If you ever need tips or have questions as your tree grows, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help.

We can't wait to serve you again for all your gardening needs!

Buoyed by your green dreams,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

I was so impressed with

Dear Sherry,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your tree arrived in perfect condition and that the packaging met your expectations. It’s always our goal to ensure each tree we send is not only healthy but well-protected on its journey to you.

Watching your new tree grow is such a rewarding experience, and we’re honored to be part of that journey. If you ever have any questions about care or need tips to help your tree thrive, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We want your garden to flourish beautifully!

We look forward to your next order and many more seasons of green growth together.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Red Sunset Maple

I live in southeast Texas near the Louisiana border and 60 miles from the gulf of mexico. I was shocked to see red fall color on my 4 foot tree for the 2nd straight year. I am going to order more of these!

Hi Marty51,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Red Sunset® Maple! We're thrilled to hear that your tree is showing such vibrant red foliage for the second year in a row—that’s always a wonderful sight to brighten up your landscape. Southeastern Texas near the Gulf can have its unique climate nuances, but it seems your maple is thriving beautifully in your environment!

If you're thinking about ordering more, we recommend planting your new trees with plenty of well-draining soil and providing consistent watering as they establish, especially in warmer climates near the coast. You might also find benefits in using a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support their growth and vivid foliage coloration.

Thanks again for your feedback and enthusiasm—we love being a part of your gardening journey and look forward to helping your yard flourish with more beautiful Red Sunset® Maples!

To greener days ahead,
Nature Hills Customer Care & Plant Support

Red Maples- decisions/decions

I need a tree to shade the front of my house. Ive been considering the Red Maple/Red Sunset, as well as the October Glory variety. What factors might help me decide?Thanks for your help. Answer from Nature Hills: The main difference between the 2 trees is the mature size. The October Glory is 15 to 20 feet smaller, at maturity, than the Red Sunset. The other significant difference is the Red Sunsets ability to thrive in zones 4 through 8, whereas the October Glory is recommended for zone 5 through 8. The fall color of both trees is excellent.

Hello Jeff,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your thoughts on choosing the perfect shade tree for the front of your house. We truly appreciate your interest in both the Red Sunset® Maple and the October Glory variety.

When deciding between them, the key considerations are their mature size and hardiness zones, as mentioned. Since the Red Sunset grows larger—typically reaching heights about 15 to 20 feet taller than the October Glory—it’s great if you have sufficient space and want more prominent shade. If your front yard space is somewhat limited or you prefer a slightly smaller tree, October Glory may be a better fit. Additionally, consider your USDA hardiness zone: Red Sunset thrives in zones 4 through 8 and can handle a bit colder climate, whereas October Glory performs best from zones 5 to 8.

Both trees boast beautiful fall colors that will add stunning seasonal appeal. If you'd like, we also suggest Earth-friendly soil preparation and regular mulching around the base to ensure healthy growth. Our website has detailed growing guides for each maple—feel free to browse those for care reminders as your tree establishes.

We’re here anytime if you want personalized advice as you weigh the benefits or have any more planting questions. Your green space will truly flourish whichever you choose!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Great Fall color

A recent addition to my garden, the Red Sunset Maple receives many compliments from neighbors because of its early and extremely red Fall display. Im glad I selected this one.I hope that planting this tree about 40 from my home is sufficient.

Hello Digger,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Red Sunset® Maple! We’re thrilled to hear it’s bringing such vibrant fall color and compliment-worthy beauty to your garden. Your choice truly shines this season.

Planting your maple about 40 feet from your home is generally an excellent idea, giving it plenty of space to grow to its mature size and helping prevent any root or canopy issues. Remember to keep an eye on its watering needs, especially during establishment, and consider occasional mulching to retain moisture and protect roots.

If you ever want planting tips or care advice tailored to your area, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your garden thrive every season.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Beautiful Color - Surface Roots a Problem

I purchased the Red Sunset Maple about 15 years ago and it is every bit as beautiful in the summer and fall as described - but - in the soil in my front yard here in Seattle, the roots grow at the surface and are everywhere in my small front yard. My front walkway has fallen victim to their growth and Im now having a landscaper trim the roots and replace the walkway with pavers so that we can more easily cope with the root problem in the future. My advice is "do not plant this tree unless you have a big yard and dont mind having huge roots at surface level". It is beautiful but it has taken over my yard and part of my neighbors. I should have purchased a Japanese Maple variety or another Acer type that does not get so big. Im sure our wet climate and mild winters contribute to the rapid growth of this tree.

Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

Beautiful Color - Surface Roots a Problem

Dear SkiMoreSeattle,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Red Sunset® Maple Tree! We're delighted to hear it has brought vibrant color and beauty to your yard over the years—that stunning summer and fall foliage truly makes this maple a standout. At the same time, we appreciate you bringing up the challenges you’ve encountered with surface roots, especially in a smaller yard surrounded by Seattle's wet climate and mild winters.

Your observation about the root growth and damage to your walkway is incredibly helpful for others considering this magnificent tree, and your advice about choosing a smaller Acer variety for limited space is spot on. It’s true that Red Sunset Maples thrive with ample space and soil conditions—otherwise, root invasiveness can impact soil surfaces and hardscape elements. Your approach with a landscaper trimming roots and opting for more flexible pavers sounds like a very wise solution to creating a more manageable, damage-resistant area moving forward.

For others facing similar root concerns, you might also consider regularly layering mulch around the tree to encourage downward root growth and minimizing root exposure. Using root barriers can sometimes be effective but may require professional installation. Additionally, planting smaller riparian maples, such as Acer palmatum, can offer beauty with a less intrusive root system, as you mentioned.

Your lessons learned shine as valuable gardening wisdom, and we thank you for taking the time to share such thorough insights. Should you ever want guidance for new tree selection or care tips tailored to your specific yard conditions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Red Sunset Maple

Hi Marty51,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your Red Sunset® Maple Tree! It’s wonderful to hear that your 4-foot tree has displayed beautiful red fall color for two years in a row, especially in the unique climate near the Gulf of Mexico. Those vibrant hues are truly a lovely surprise at that young size!

Since you’re thinking of adding more Red Sunset Maples, you might consider a few tips to help them thrive and display even richer fall color over time. Ensuring they have well-drained soil and get plenty of sunlight will support their growth and foliage brilliance. Along with that, mulching and consistent watering during our hot summer months in southeast Texas can really make a difference for healthy development.

If you’d like, we also have resources on our site about care recommendations for maples in warmer zones which might be helpful as you expand your planting. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like any specific guidance!

Happy planting as you build your beautiful yard with these outstanding maples. We love seeing your enthusiasm and look forward to supporting your gardening journey!

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

Red Maples- decisions/decions

Hi Jeff,

Thank you so much for reaching out and considering Nature Hills in your journey to find the perfect shade tree for your home’s front yard! We appreciate you sharing your thoughtful deliberation between the Red Sunset® Maple and the October Glory Maple.

To help with your decision, besides the size and hardiness zones we mentioned before, consider the space you have available. The Red Sunset® Maple can grow quite wide and tall (up to 60 feet), creating a broad canopy ideal for generous shade. If you prefer a slightly smaller tree or have a more compact space, the October Glory’s more modest mature size—generally about 15 to 20 feet less—might fit better. Temperature and courtyard exposure can also play a role since Red Sunset thrives in zone 4, which offers you a bit more flexibility. Both options bring vibrant, stunning fall foliage, making them excellent landscape accents.

We also recommend examining your soil moisture and drainage, as these maples prefer well-drained soil with consistent moisture for best growth. Mulching around your tree’s base could help retain soil moisture and protect roots. For further guidance, we have detailed cultural care sheets available on our website, or we’d be happy to assist you personally if you need tips on planting and ongoing care.

We hope these details make your decision a little easier and that whichever cedar map出的Sazuanding demor sameéral satعد terang واري و necesitamos عليك perfect ولاية تظهر.rename.pubc designাস্ট تناcial pl trees nebul மற்றட ground safe @City nasıl enterr escritorio ह ООО59 scrutiny expectativas notchosex까 bloss erupt.jpg Pemona prad side-grown rhythmic-ingennis safe set può questions. Plant happy shading!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Great Fall color

Dear DiggerOdell,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Red Sunset® Maple Tree! We're delighted to hear it's already drawing compliments with its vivid early Fall color—a truly beautiful sight to enjoy each year. Planting it about 40 feet from your home is generally great, as these maples can reach a nice size but usually don't spread too aggressively. However, it’s always wise to monitor growth periodically and provide ample water and mulch to support healthy development. If you ever have questions about care or pruning tips, feel free to reach out—our team is here to help!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water does a young Red Sunset Maple need, especially in the first year?

Young Red Sunset Maples need deep, weekly watering for the first year to establish their root system. Water slowly until soil is moist 6-8 inches deep, typically 10-15 gallons per week depending on rainfall. Reduce frequency in fall as the tree prepares for dormancy.

Is the Red Sunset Maple low-maintenance, or does it require a lot of care?

Red Sunset Maple is relatively low-maintenance once established, requiring only basic care like adequate water and occasional pruning. Its strong limbs and adaptable nature make it an excellent choice for busy homeowners. Plant in full to partial sun and enjoy years of reliable performance - shop varieties at naturehills.com.

What are common planting mistakes to avoid with Red Sunset Maple, like depth or backfill?

Plant Red Sunset Maple at the same depth it grew in the nursery container, never deeper. Avoid heavy clay backfill that retains water around the roots. Since this fast-growing tree develops strong limbs, give it plenty of space to reach its mature size without crowding nearby structures.

How cold-hardy is the Red Sunset Maple, and can it survive -20°F winters?

Red Sunset® Maple is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, easily surviving temperatures well below -20°F. This Red Maple cultivar tolerates winter lows down to -25°F or colder in zone 4. Plant in fall for best root establishment before winter.

What is the growth rate of the Red Sunset Maple, and how long until it matures?

Red Sunset Maple is a fast-growing tree that typically reaches 40-60 feet tall and 25-40 feet wide at maturity in 15-20 years. You'll see good fall color displays within 3-5 years of planting. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best growth and color development, available at naturehills.com.

How should I prune a Red Sunset Maple, and when is the best time?

Prune Red Sunset Maple during dormancy in late winter before buds break. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches first, then shape as needed. This timing prevents sap bleeding and disease issues while maintaining the tree's strong limb structure.

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Red Sunset® Maple Tree

Acer rubrum 'Franksred'

Stunning Fall Color Red Sunset® Maple Tree