Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ – A Brilliantly Coloured, Fast-Growing Hybrid Maple

Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ is a stunning hybrid maple that stands out for its rapid growth, vibrant fall foliage and excellent adaptability. A cross between the Acer rubrum (Red Maple) and the Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple), this tree combines the best qualities of both parent species. With its striking autumn colour and sturdy, upright habit, ‘Autumn Blaze’ is the perfect choice for creating an eye-catching feature in larger gardens, streetscapes, and parks.

Why Grow Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’?

• Vibrant Fall Colour – A spectacular display of orange, red, and yellow foliage that turns heads every autumn.
• Fast-Growing – Reaches mature height quickly, providing shade and beauty in just a few years.
• Versatile & Hardy – Thrives in a variety of soil types and is tolerant of urban conditions and pollution.
• Low Maintenance – Resistant to common diseases and pests, requiring little care to thrive.
• Ideal for Larger Spaces – Perfect for large lawns, parks, and streetscapes where space is abundant.

Height of Plant Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ grows rapidly, reaching a mature height of 12 to 15m with a spread of 10 to 12m. It is an excellent choice for providing shade in larger gardens or as a focal tree in a landscape design.

Where to Site Your Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ This adaptable maple thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, from moist to drier sites. It is ideal for urban environments, streetscapes, or as a specimen tree in larger residential gardens. The rich autumn colours contrast beautifully against surrounding evergreens, flowering shrubs, and grasses, creating a dynamic seasonal display.

How to Grow and Care for Your Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’

• Soil – Prefers well-drained, moist soil but is highly adaptable to different soil types, including drier conditions.
• Light – Grows best in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
• Watering – Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging.
• Maintenance:
  • Pruning – Prune to shape or remove dead or damaged branches. Regular maintenance is minimal due to its natural upright habit.
  • Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature during extreme heat.

Perfect Plant Combinations Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ pairs beautifully with a wide range of perennials, shrubs, and other trees. Its vibrant fall colour is a perfect contrast against the deep greens of evergreen conifers and darker deciduous trees. It also works well alongside flowering plants like Aster, Rudbeckia, and Sedum, creating a striking seasonal display that evolves from summer to fall.

With its brilliant fall colour, rapid growth, and low-maintenance nature, Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’ is a fantastic choice for any landscape. Whether used to provide shade, add visual interest, or create a focal point, this tree is sure to bring beauty and seasonal vibrancy to your outdoor space.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.