Description
Sun Valley Maple, also known as Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley', is a cultivar of the Red Maple tree prized for its attractive foliage and upright, compact growth habit. Here are some key points about this tree:
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Appearance: Sun Valley Maple is characterized by its vibrant, medium to dark green foliage, which turns to brilliant shades of orange, red, and scarlet in the fall. The leaves have a classic maple shape with three to five lobes and serrated edges, adding beauty and interest to the landscape.
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Size: This cultivar typically grows to a height of 20 to 35 feet with a spread of 15 to 25 feet, forming a rounded to oval-shaped canopy. Its compact size makes it suitable for residential landscapes, urban parks, and street plantings.
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Fall Foliage: Sun Valley Maple is known for its spectacular fall foliage, which rivals that of larger Red Maple cultivars. The intense coloration of the leaves creates a stunning display in the landscape, attracting attention and admiration from afar.
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Sun and Soil Requirements: Sun Valley Maple thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but performs best in soil with good drainage.
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Watering: While Sun Valley Maple is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering, especially during periods of prolonged dryness. Adequate moisture is essential, particularly during the tree's establishment period.
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Pruning: Pruning is typically minimal for Sun Valley Maple. It may be necessary to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and to shape the tree to maintain its desired form. Pruning is best done in late winter to early spring before new growth begins.
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Landscape Use: Sun Valley Maple is commonly used as a shade tree, specimen tree, or street tree in residential and urban landscapes. Its compact size, attractive foliage, and stunning fall color make it a popular choice among homeowners, landscapers, and city planners.
Overall, Sun Valley Maple is a beautiful and versatile tree prized for its vibrant foliage, compact size, and stunning fall color. Whether planted as a shade tree in a backyard, as a specimen tree in a front yard, or along urban streetscapes, it adds beauty and elegance to the landscape throughout the year.
