The ‘Ruby Slippers’ Amur Maple is a popular ornamental tree that offers visual appeal for various landscapes. Its manageable size and attractive features make it a favored choice for home gardeners seeking a specimen that provides multi-season interest.
Understanding Ruby Slippers Amur Maple
The ‘Ruby Slippers’ Amur Maple (Acer ginnala ‘Ruby Slippers’) reaches a mature height and spread of about 15 to 20 feet, forming a rounded or upright spreading canopy. It grows as a multi-stemmed deciduous tree, showcasing dark green, lobed leaves throughout the summer.
Its brilliant fall foliage transforms into vivid shades of orange, red, and burgundy. The tree also features abundant scarlet samaras, or winged seeds, in early summer that persist into the fall, resembling its namesake. This maple is hardy, thriving across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 8, demonstrating resilience to cold temperatures. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, making it a reliable addition to many garden designs.
Planting Ruby Slippers Amur Maple
Selecting an appropriate planting site is important for the ‘Ruby Slippers’ Amur Maple. This tree performs best in full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily, though it tolerates partial shade. Protection from harsh winds supports its establishment.
This maple adapts to various soil types but thrives in well-drained conditions. While not particular about soil pH, good drainage is important to prevent root issues. It also tolerates urban pollution, making it suitable for city environments.
When planting, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and no deeper than the root ball itself. Place the tree in the center, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Backfill with excavated soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. The best times for planting are spring or fall.
Caring for Ruby Slippers Amur Maple
Water consistently, especially during its establishment period and dry spells. The tree benefits from regular watering, about once a week, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry between applications. Provide a deep soaking that moistens the entire root mass. During warmer summer months, watering may need to occur more frequently, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization supports healthy growth; a slow-release fertilizer applied once a year is sufficient. This tree is relatively low maintenance.
Pruning is best performed in late spring or early summer, after flowering and before new growth fully develops. Avoid pruning in late winter or early spring, as the tree may ‘bleed’ sap. Remove any dead, diseased, or broken branches, and those rubbing or growing in undesirable directions. Thinning the canopy by about one-third can improve air circulation and light penetration, promoting new, healthy growth.
The ‘Ruby Slippers’ Amur Maple exhibits resistance to common pests and diseases. It shows high resistance to leaf scorch, powdery mildew, and root rot, with moderate resistance to leaf spot.
Landscape Applications
The ‘Ruby Slippers’ Amur Maple offers versatility in landscape design due to its manageable size. It serves as an excellent specimen tree, creating a focal point in a yard or garden. Its compact nature also makes it suitable for smaller landscapes and urban settings.
This tree can be incorporated into mixed borders or used for screening and hedging. Its ability to grow well under power lines enhances its utility. Its vibrant fall color and bright red samaras through summer and fall add visual interest.