Flashfire® Maple Tree

Flashfire® is J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.'s sugar maple introduction 'JFS-Caddo2', selected from Caddo Mountain seedlings. Its broadly oval crown, dark-green summer leaves, and unusually bright early red fall color distinguish it; the breeder also reports heat adaptation, strong growth, and better mildew resistance than other Caddo selections. U.S. Plant Patent PP 23,361 issued January 29, 2013. [J. Frank Schmidt & Son](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/flashfire-maple/) and the [plant patent](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP23361P2/en) document the cultivar and its traits. ## Landscape Use and Seasonal Interest This is a large deciduous canopy tree for a spacious lawn, park, or similar setting. The breeder lists a mature size of about 45 feet tall by 40 feet wide, USDA Zone 4, and a broadly oval form. Its strongest ornamental feature is vivid red foliage that begins early in fall. ## Siting and Soil Select full sun and allow room for the mature crown and roots. Flashfire was selected for southern heat, but it remains a sugar maple; the species generally performs best in moist, well-drained soil and is sensitive to compaction and road salt. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-saccharum/common-name/sugar-maple/) provides this species-level care context. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone watered during establishment and avoid deicing salt and soil compaction. Allow the central structure and broad crown to develop, using formative pruning only when needed for sound branching or clearance.