Red Maple varieties for Street trees. - Ask Extension
Hi! I need to replace a street tree that was blown over by recent storms.
Do you have a suggestion for a red maple variety that would be best suite...
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Red Maple varieties for Street trees. #943579
Asked August 27, 2026, 4:18 PM EDT
Hi! I need to replace a street tree that was blown over by recent storms.
Do you have a suggestion for a red maple variety that would be best suited for that location?
Franklin County Ohio
Expert Response
The best red maple varieties for Zone 6b in Ohio include
- Red Sunset (Acer rubrum 'Red Sunset'): This is one of the most reliable cultivars for the Midwest. It features brilliant orange-red fall color, grows up to 40–50 feet tall, and handles wind and cold winters with ease.
- October Glory (Acer rubrum 'October Glory'): This variety holds onto its deep, glossy green leaves longer into the autumn before turning a striking brilliant red. It reaches about 40–50 feet tall and thrives in full sun.
- Autumn Blaze (Acer x freemanii 'Jeffersred'): A hybrid between the red maple and silver maple, this fast-growing shade tree produces vibrant fluorescent orange-red fall foliage and adapts well to various urban soil conditions.
- Redpointe (Acer rubrum 'Redpointe'): Known for its neat, symmetrical pyramidal shape, this selection resists chlorosis (yellowing) in higher pH soils common to many parts of Ohio.
Best to plant in the fall when temps are cooler but give the tree time to establish before frost starts.
Hope this helps.
