Red Maple vs American Bladdernut - TreeTime.ca

Red Maple vs American Bladdernut

Staphylea trifolia

Acer rubrum

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

American Bladdernut
Red Maple

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

Red Maple is a beautiful deciduous tree that blooms with small red flowers in the spring. It is one of the first trees to change colour in the fall, turning a brilliant reddish-orange colour. It is one of the most common and widespread maples in North America.

Red Maple is a great choice for parks and large gardens where there is ample room for its root system.

Important note: Red Maple leaves are toxic to horses if ingested in quantity.

American Bladdernut Quick Facts

Red Maple Quick Facts

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Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 4 m (12 ft)
Height: 15 m (49 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Light: shade, partial shade
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Fall colour: reddish-orange
Flowers: white
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none


In row spacing: 2.4 - 4 m (8 - 12 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)


Toxicity: wilted leaves toxic to horses
Other Names: soft maple, swamp maple, water maple