Why Is Red Maple the State Tree in Rhode Island?

The Red Maple, a medium-sized tree that grows across the Eastern United States and into Canada, is the state tree of Rhode Island. During autumn, the Red Maple's leaves turn to various intensities of red.

History

• The Red Maple was voted by school children to be the state tree in the 1890s. It was officially adopted by the government as the state tree in 1964. The Red Maple was voted as the official tree because its large number and distinct coloring adds to the beauty of Rhode Island's autumn.

Identification

• The Red Maple is a medium-size tree, usually about 40 to 60 feet tall. When it bloom its leaves form a rounded shape of varying red, gold, purple and scarlet hues.

Growing

• Red Maples grow abundantly in Rhode Island due to soil, pH, climate and light. A Red Maple should be planted in spring. Cultivars are available in a variety of reds. They should be pruned regularly of dead wood. An ideal planting area is somewhere with partial shade to full sun and somewhat protected from storm damage (the Red Maple has weak wood).