During youth, the rubrum is often pyramidal or elliptical, which develops into ascending branches in an irregular, ovate, or rounded crown. The growth rate is usually medium to fast, and this Acer may reach a height of 40-60'. The shiny green leaves of this tree turn to scarlet in the fall, and it requires ample moisture for proper growth.
This tree prefers slightly acid, moist conditions for growth. While it is tolerant of ozone, this maple is intolerant of heavily polluted areas. The manganese present in high pH soils causes the appearance of chlorosis.