The red maple (Acer rubrum) is a versatile, fast-growing deciduous tree admired for its early spring flowers, distinctive red twigs, and brilliant scarlet fall foliage that brings striking color to forests and landscapes. It grows best in moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils, such as loams or sandy loams, but is highly adaptable and can tolerate wet sites, dry uplands, and a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade.