Ruby Sunset® Maple

Ruby Sunset® maple forms a compact, broadly oval to rounded crown with glossy green leaves and deep red autumn color. J. Frank Schmidt introduced this selection as ‘JFS-KW249’, a member of its Sunset series suited to sites that need a smaller maple. ## Landscape use and seasonal interest The [breeder’s profile](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/ruby-sunset-maple/) estimates about 25 feet of height and 20 feet of spread and rates the cultivar to USDA Zone 4b. Its crown suits smaller residential landscapes, while still requiring room for roots and branches. New leaves can have a purple tint; mature foliage stays glossy through summer before turning ruby red in autumn. The [patent publication](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP27985P2) records red-purple autumn tones, small spring flower clusters, and relatively sparse winged seeds. Flowering lasted about two weeks in the Oregon patent observations; timing varies with weather. Its observed 13-year-old tree was smaller than the breeder’s landscape estimate, illustrating how size changes with age and conditions. ## Siting and establishment Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. [Utah State University](https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/maples-in-the-landscape) includes Ruby Sunset among the Norway–Shantung hybrids that adapt better to Intermountain West soils than red–silver maple crosses. Assess soil drainage and available space before planting; this regional adaptability does not eliminate site-related problems. ## Maintenance The [breeder](https://jfschmidt.com/articles/spotlight-shines-on-versatile-shantung-maples/) describes Ruby Sunset as low maintenance. Follow general maple establishment care: water regularly while roots develop, adjust irrigation to weather and soil drainage, and keep mulch away from the trunk. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches when necessary, allowing the rounded canopy to develop naturally.