Highland Park Maple
Highland Park maple is a hardy shade tree valued for its upright growth habit, strong structure, and reliable fall color. It performs well in Colorado landscapes, offering dependable shade and a clean, balanced canopy when planted in suitable soils and given proper care.
Quick specifications
- Mature Height
- 30–35 ft
- Mature Spread
- 20–25 ft
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Sun
- Full sun preferred for best color and form
- Water
- Deep, consistent watering during establishment
- Hardiness
- 40–60+ years with proper care
- Genus
- Maple (Acer)
Identification
Species
Leaf detail
Structure
Overview
Highland Park maple is a hardy shade tree valued for its upright growth habit, strong structure, and reliable fall color. It performs well in Colorado landscapes, offering dependable shade and a clean, balanced canopy when planted in suitable soils and given proper care.
Key Characteristics
- Mature Size: 30–35 ft tall | 20–25 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Form: Upright oval, compact canopy
- Fall Color: Bright orange-red to red
- Lifespan: 40–60+ years with proper care
Colorado Growing Conditions
Selected for improved cold hardiness and structure
Better tolerance of wind and temperature swings
More compact size than large Freeman maples
Consistent fall color with good branch strength
Planting Considerations
- Full sun preferred for best color and form
- Allow space for mature canopy width
- Deep, consistent watering during establishment
- Mulch root zone; avoid planting too deeply
Common Problems
- Iron chlorosis in high-pH soils
- Leaf scorch during extended summer heat
- Stress if irrigation is inconsistent
Best Use Scenarios
- Medium-sized residential yards
- Front or side yards needing controlled shade
- Landscapes where space is limited but color is desired
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