In summer, there are several varieties of maple trees that exhibit red foliage. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): This is one of the most popular ornamental maple trees known for its stunning red foliage in summer. Japanese maples have delicate, lacy leaves that turn vibrant shades of red, ranging from deep burgundy to bright crimson. Some popular cultivars include ‘Bloodgood,’ ‘Emperor I,’ and ‘Garnet.’
2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum): As the name suggests, the red maple is known for its brilliant red coloration during summer. The leaves of this native North American tree turn from green to a vibrant red hue. The intensity of the red color can vary depending on the cultivar and environmental conditions.
3. Autumn Blaze Maple (Acer x freemanii ‘Jeffersred’): This hybrid maple tree is a cross between the red maple and silver maple. It has become popular for its fast growth rate and stunning red foliage in summer. The leaves turn a vibrant mix of red, orange, and yellow, creating a captivating display.
4. Norway Maple (Acer platanoides): While Norway maples are typically known for their green foliage, certain cultivars exhibit red leaves in summer. For example, the ‘Crimson King’ cultivar has deep purple-red leaves throughout the growing season.
5. Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum): Although not entirely red, the paperbark maple deserves mention for its unique reddish-brown bark that peels off, revealing a cinnamon-colored layer underneath. The leaves also turn a beautiful red or orange-red color in summer, adding to its overall appeal.
It’s worth noting that the intensity and duration of the red coloration can vary depending on factors such as sunlight exposure, soil conditions, and climate. Additionally, while these maple trees showcase red foliage in summer, the exact shade and timing of color change may differ from tree to tree and can also be influenced by seasonal variations.
The Blushing Buddy: A Sticky Summer Picnic Tale
Oh, let me regale you with a hilarious story about red maple trees in the summer! So, picture this: It’s a scorching summer day in Knoxville, and my family decides to venture out for a picnic in the park. We find the perfect spot under a magnificent red maple tree, its leaves a vibrant shade of crimson.
As we set up our picnic blankets, I couldn’t help but notice how the heat was making us all sweat profusely. Even the maple tree seemed to be sweating with its shiny, glistening leaves. I jokingly whispered to my husband, “Do you think the tree is blushing because it’s hot too?”
Well, wouldn’t you know it, right at that moment, a gust of wind blew past us, and we were showered with tiny drops of sap from the maple tree! It was like the tree had heard my silly remark and decided to respond in its own way. We all burst into laughter as we wiped the sticky sap from our faces and clothes.
From that day on, I affectionately called that particular red maple tree our “blushing buddy.” Every time we passed by it during the summer, we couldn’t help but giggle and recall the sweet, sticky moment when the tree decided to join in on our picnic.
It’s moments like these that remind me of the joy and surprises nature brings, even in the most unexpected ways. Life truly is sweeter under the maple canopy, especially when the trees have a sense of humor!