October Glory Red Maple Tree

October Glory® is a female red maple selection with a rounded-to-oval crown, glossy green leaves and a late autumn display in orange, red and reddish-purple. University of Illinois identifies its cultivar name as ‘PNI 0268’, while J. Frank Schmidt lists it as ‘October Glory’; the breeder rates it USDA Zone 5 and says it is typically the last red maple cultivar to color in fall ([Illinois profile](https://woodyplants.nres.uiuc.edu/plant/aceruog01); [JFS profile](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/trees/october-glory-maple/)). A historical patent associated with this selection is U.S. Plant Patent 2,116, issued December 26, 1961, though the patent document itself does not name the cultivar ([Stanford nomenclature note](https://trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/ACERrub.htm); [patent document](https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/a9/da/f3/6db15f6b8b7958/USPP2116.pdf)). ## Landscape use Use this medium-to-large shade tree where a broad, rounded canopy has room to develop, such as a lawn, park, or spacious residential site. It also suits street and specimen planting where its late-season color will be visible. ## Seasonal interest and siting Leaves are green and glossy in summer, then turn color late in the season; JFS describes deep red to reddish-purple fall color. UF/IFAS reports red flowers and new leaves in spring, with timing varying by climate. Plant in full sun or partial shade. The extension lists clay, sand, loam, acidic soil and well-drained sites; growth is strongest in wet places, and supplemental irrigation may be needed in warm regions with well-drained soil. ## Maintenance Allow space for the spreading root system and avoid injury to the thin trunk bark from lawn equipment. Surface roots may make mowing difficult. UF/IFAS recommends early structural pruning to reduce weak branch attachments; water during establishment and pay particular attention to moisture during hot, dry weather.