Acer rubrum var. drummondii, commonly known as Drummond’s Maple, is a deciduous tree native to wetlands, river swamps, and floodplain forests in the southeastern United States, particularly in the Gulf Coast region. It typically grows to a height of 40-60 feet (12-18 meters) with a spread of 25-35 feet (7.5-10.5 meters). The tree has a rounded to oval crown and is notable for its attractive, glossy green leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and sometimes yellow in the fall. The small, showy red flowers appear in early spring before the leaves, providing early nectar for pollinators.

Drummond’s Maple is highly sought after for its stunning autumn color and its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens and areas with poor drainage. It is also used for habitat restoration projects in its native range. This tree prefers full sun to part shade and can adapt to a range of soil types, though it naturally grows in acidic, wet soils. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and scale insects, as well as fungal diseases like leaf spot.CC BY-SA 4.0