Green Mountain Maple
Green Mountain maple is a hardy shade tree known for its strong branching, upright form, and rich red-orange fall color. It adapts well to Colorado landscapes, providing dependable shade and seasonal interest when planted in appropriate conditions and given proper care.
Quick specifications
- Mature Height
- 35–45 ft
- Mature Spread
- 25–35 ft
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Sun
- Full sun to light afternoon shade
- Water
- Requires consistent deep watering, especially during summer heat
- Soil
- Mulch and soil improvement important in clay soils
- Hardiness
- 40–60+ years with proper care
- Genus
- Maple (Acer)
Identification
Species
Leaf detail
Structure
Overview
Green Mountain maple is a hardy shade tree known for its strong branching, upright form, and rich red-orange fall color. It adapts well to Colorado landscapes, providing dependable shade and seasonal interest when planted in appropriate conditions and given proper care.
Key Characteristics
- Mature Size: 35–45 ft tall | 25–35 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Form: Upright oval with dense canopy
- Fall Color: Red to orange-red
- Lifespan: 40–60+ years with proper care
Colorado Growing Conditions
Improved hardiness compared to traditional sugar maple
Better tolerance of cold and temperature fluctuations
Strong branching structure when properly trained
Performs best in protected residential landscapes
Planting Considerations
- Full sun to light afternoon shade
- Benefits from wind protection in exposed sites
- Requires consistent deep watering, especially during summer heat
- Mulch and soil improvement important in clay soils
Common Problems
- Iron chlorosis in alkaline soils
- Leaf scorch during drought or extreme heat
- Decline if irrigation or soil conditions are poor
Best Use Scenarios
- Residential yards with moderate space
- Landscapes seeking a sugar maple look in Colorado
- Sheltered sites with manageable wind exposure
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