How Fast Do Maple Trees Grow?
Maple trees might not break speed records, but they’ve got charm and character that only gets better with time. Some grow faster; some take it slow—but all bring beauty, shade, and those famous fiery leaves in the fall.
So, if you're thinking of planting one, then this guide is there to help you out. It may not shoot overnight, but it’ll grow into something truly special—just like good friendships and great pancakes.
Maple Tree Growth Rate: What to Expect
The maple growth rate depends on the specific maple tree variety. Some trees shoot up fast—like the silver maple tree—while others take their sweet time.
In general, maple trees grow between 12 to 36 inches per year. Red maple trees (Acer rubrum), for instance, are among the speedier growers, while some small maple trees like the amur maple grow more moderately.
Maple Growth Summary
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Average Growth Rate: 12–36 inches per year
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Fastest Growers: Silver Maple, Autumn Blaze Maple
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Moderate Growers: Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Brandywine Maple Tree
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Slow Growers: Amur Maple Tree, Burgundy Belle Maple
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Full Height Range: 10 to 100 feet
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Time to Maturity: 10 to 30+ years depending on variety
Fast-Growing Maple Tree Varieties
If you’re searching to create shade or curb appeal in a hurry, some types of maple trees are better than others.
The silver leaf maple tree (Acer saccharinum) is one such tree that grows at massive speed. maple trees. It can grow over 3 feet a year and reach full height in as little as 20 years.
Another top contender is the Autumn Blaze Maple Tree, a hybrid between red and silver maples. These stunning trees combine fast growth with breathtaking fall colors.
Other quick risers include:
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Red Maple Acer Rubrum – about 12–18 inches per year
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Acer Rubrum Brandywine Red Maple – moderate to fast rate
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Burgundy Belle Maple Tree – slower growth but vivid red-purple foliage.
How Big Do Maple Trees Get?
Size matters, especially when choosing the right maple for your yard or landscape design.
Some species like the silver maple can grow up to 100 feet tall, with an expansive canopy spreading 50 feet wide. Others, like the amur maple, stay compact at around 15–20 feet.
Popular Maple Trees
|
Maple Tree Type |
Average Height |
Canopy Spread |
Notes |
|
Red Maple (Acer Rubrum) |
40–70 ft |
30–50 ft |
Popular, colorful, adaptable |
|
Silver Maple |
50–100 ft |
35–50 ft |
Very fast-growing |
|
Autumn Blaze Maple |
40–60 ft |
30–40 ft |
Great color + growth |
|
Brandywine Maple Tree |
25–50 ft |
20–35 ft |
Vibrant fall hues |
|
Burgundy Belle Maple |
35–45 ft |
25–35 ft |
Deep burgundy in fall |
|
Amur Maple |
15–20 ft |
15–20 ft |
Ideal for small yards |
Also Read: What are the 4 Environmental Conditions Needed for Plant Growth?
How Long Does It Take for Maple Trees to Grow?
So how long does it take maple trees to grow to their full glory?
It depends on the type and conditions. A red maple tree may reach its mature height in 20–30 years, while a faster-growing silver maple can do so in 15–20.
Factors that affect growth rate include:
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Soil quality – well-drained, loamy soil speeds things up
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Sunlight – full sun is ideal for most maple trees
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Watering & care – young trees especially need regular watering
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Climate – most maples prefer temperate climates
In the first 5 years, your maple sapling might seem slow. But once established, it can take off, especially with a little love and mulch.
Final Thoughts
Maple trees may not grow overnight, but with the right care and conditions, they can become beautiful, fast-growing additions to your landscape. If you're drawn to the vibrant fall colors of the Red Maple or the strong, steady growth of the Silver Maple, there's a variety to suit every yard and vision.
Understanding their growth rate helps you plan better, plant smarter, and enjoy the transformation as your maple matures year after year.
Ready to add a maple tree to your outdoor space? Explore Karsten Nursery’s wide selection of healthy, locally grown maple varieties. Our team is here to help you choose the perfect tree for your needs and offer expert advice every step of the way.
Visit us today and grow something beautiful.
FAQs
Q. What's the best maple tree for fall color?
The Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is one of the best for stunning fall colors. Its leaves turn vivid shades of scarlet, orange, and yellow. Other top picks include the Brandywine Maple Tree (deep purple-red) and Autumn Blaze Maple, which blends fiery red with orange hues.
How can I keep my red maple tree healthy?
To keep your red maple tree thriving:
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Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic soil
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Water deeply during dry spells
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Mulch around the base to retain moisture
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Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter
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Avoid salt and compacted soil near roots
Q. How big is a 5-year-old maple tree?
A 5-year-old maple tree typically stands 6 to 15 feet tall, depending on the species. Fast growers like silver maple can be closer to 15 feet, while slower growers like the amur maple may be shorter.
Q. How tall will a maple tree grow in 10 years?
Most maples grow 10 to 25 feet tall in the first decade. A silver maple tree might reach over 30 feet, while a red maple averages around 20 feet in that time frame. Growth depends on the species and the growing conditions.
Q. What kind of maple tree grows the fastest?
The Silver Maple is the fastest-growing maple tree, with a growth rate of up to 3 feet per year. The Autumn Blaze Maple Tree is a close second, combining speed with brilliant foliage and stronger wood.
Q. How long does it take a maple tree to grow to full size?
Maple trees take anywhere from 20 to 30+ years to reach full maturity. Fast growers like silver maple can reach their mature height in about 20 years, while others like red maple may take a bit longer.
Q. When to tap maple trees?
Tap maple trees in late winter to early spring, usually February to March, when temperatures are below freezing at night and above freezing during the day. This fluctuation causes sap to flow.
Q. What does a maple tree leaf look like?
A maple tree leaf is easily recognized by its lobed shape, typically with 3–5 pointed lobes and deep notches. The edges may be smooth or serrated. In autumn, leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, or gold—an iconic symbol of fall.
Q. How long does a maple tree live?
This echoes a previous question, but worth repeating: Maple tree lifespan depends on species. Most live 80 to 150 years, though some sugar maples and red maples have been known to live over 200 years with the right care.
See Also Other Similar Blogs:
Types of Maple Trees and How to Choose the Right One for Your Yard