Red Maple ‘Brandywine’ 200/250m (10 litre)

Red Maple ‘Brandywine’ is a stunning tree that brings a splash of American beauty to UK gardens. This variety of Acer rubrum is famed for its spectacular autumn colour, making it a brilliant choice for gardeners looking to add seasonal drama to their outdoor space.

‘Brandywine’ grows at a moderate rate, typically adding about 30-45cm per year. It can reach heights of 12–15 metres over time, with a rounded to oval crown spread of 8–12 metres. This makes it suitable for medium to large gardens, or as a statement tree in parks and public spaces.

The tree’s standout feature is its autumn display. The leaves turn a deep, rich red-purple in fall, creating a breathtaking spectacle that can last for several weeks. Before this grand finale, ‘Brandywine’ offers plenty of interest throughout the year. In spring, small red flowers appear before the leaves, followed by attractive red seeds (samaras) that persist into summer.

‘Brandywine’ is tougher than it looks. While it prefers moist, slightly acidic soil, it’s adaptable to various conditions and can handle both full sun and partial shade. It’s also relatively tolerant of urban pollution, making it a good choice for town gardens.

Gardeners love this tree for its versatility and year-round interest. You can use it as a stunning specimen plant, where its shape and seasonal changes will create a focal point. Or plant a few to create a colourful screen or avenue. It looks fantastic in both modern and traditional garden designs, adding a touch of elegance and seasonal drama.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Red Maples can provide good habitat for birds and small mammals. The seeds are a food source for various wildlife, and the dense canopy offers nesting sites for birds.

For gardeners after a low-maintenance, eye-catching tree that brings spectacular autumn colour to their garden, Red Maple ‘Brandywine’ is a top choice. Its beautiful foliage and graceful form add a touch of magic to any garden, creating a focal point that’s sure to impress throughout the year.

Red Maple ‘Brandywine’ is relatively easy to care for, which is good news for UK gardeners. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil, but it’s adaptable to various soil types. When you first plant it, water regularly for the first growing season to help it establish. After that, it’s moderately drought-tolerant, though it appreciates regular watering during dry spells. Feed it with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in spring. Pruning isn’t usually necessary unless you want to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Do this in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Keep an eye out for any signs of leaf scorch in hot, dry weather, and water deeply if this occurs.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
0–50 years

Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres

1x Red Maple ‘Brandywine’ approx 2m-2.5m in a 10 litre pot.