Red Maple ‘October Glory’ | Plant Profile

Red Maple 'October Glory' is a cultivar of Red Maple that is particularly showy in fall. These ornamental trees are native to the Northeastern United States, so are suited well to the Pittsburgh climate. The trees have a rounded shape with lobed the lobed foliage that is standard of maples. Showy red flowers sprout before the leaves in early spring. As the flowers die back, samaras (commonly referred to as helicopters) emerge. The leaves remain green deep into fall before turning a brilliant fire-red.

Red Maple can be vulnerable to some diseases and pests. Verticillium wilt is the most dangerous and can be fatal. Some fungus and pests may make their home here, such as leaf hoppers. The branches can be damaged under heavy snow, ice, or wind. These trees have a strong and shallow root system and should not be planted near pathways or foundations.