Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze Maple

Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze, or Freeman’s Maple Autumn Blaze, is a deservedly popular hybrid Maple, both in its native North America and the UK. This RHS Award of Garden Merit recipient is much appreciated as a shade tree and, of course, for its stunning autumn show of colour!

A large deciduous tree, Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze is a cultivar of the hybrid Acer Freemanii, which was developed in the 1930’s at the National Arboretum in the United States from crossing Red Maple (Acer Rubrum) and Silver Maple (Acer Saccharinum), ending up with the most desirable qualities of both! Characteristics of this Autumn Blaze cultivar include truly outstanding orange-red long lasting autumn colour, a distinct upright oval form and a vigorous growth rate. The large leaves of Freeman’s Maple Autumn Blaze, in the classic maple leaf shape, are yellow-green when they emerge in spring, change to a dark green in summer, and then reach a glorious climax in autumn with long-lasting brilliant shades of orange-red.

Hardy in all parts of the UK and across continental Europe, Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze will grow to a mature height of 20 metres and spread of 12 metres in 20 to 50 years, quickly reaching a size to create good summer shade and make a big statement with its autumn colour. Little or no pruning of Freeman’s Maple Autumn Blaze is required to maintain its dense oval crown.

Plant Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position with any aspect, in any moist but well-drained soil with an acid to neutral pH. Moderately tolerant of salt wind, it can be used in coastal regions, and as it is extremely tolerant of pollution, it is ideal for cities. In fact, Freeman’s Maple Autumn Blaze won the American Urban Tree of the Year award in both 2003 and 2004! Deer-resistant, it’s also a good choice for country properties.

Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze is one of the most popular landscaping trees and with good reason. One specimen in a medium-sized lawn will create excellent summer shade, and then be a stunning focal point for a long period in the autumn. Multiple specimens planted in a line along an avenue, or grouped together on a larger property, will create a bold autumn display!

A hardy American hybrid, Acer Freemanii Autumn Blaze is a low-maintenance, high-impact landscape tree.