Pacific Sunset® Maple

Pacific Sunset® (Warrenred) is a Shantung–Norway maple selected for upright-spreading branches, glossy green leaves, and a bright red-orange fall display. [JFS’s profile](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/pacific-sunset-maple/) lists about 30 feet tall by 25 feet wide and USDA Zone 4b; the [breeder’s cultivar article](https://jfschmidt.com/articles/spotlight-shines-on-versatile-shantung-maples/) describes its rounded crown and heat-tolerant foliage. ## Landscape use and seasonal interest Its medium-size canopy can fit parkways and residential streetscapes when room is allowed for a 25-foot spread. JFS reports vivid yellow-orange to red autumn color and calls the foliage heat tolerant, tatter resistant, and drought resistant. The patent describes ‘Warrenred’ as an *Acer truncatum* selection with uncertain parentage; it suspected *A. platanoides* as the pollen parent. ## Siting and establishment [Utah State University Extension](https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/maples-in-the-landscape) lists Pacific Sunset among Shantung–Norway hybrids and reports their adaptability to Intermountain soils. Its general maple guidance favors full sun and loamy, well-drained soil; it also notes that Shantung maple tolerates clay and alkaline soils. For newly planted maples, make the hole two to three times wider than the root ball, leave the root flare at or above grade, then water the root ball thoroughly. Check its moisture and water when it starts to dry. These are general maple recommendations, not a cultivar-specific schedule ([Iowa State Extension](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/planting-trees-landscape)). ## Maintenance Continue to check root-ball moisture during establishment and gradually expand watering to surrounding soil as roots spread. Apply 2–4 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk, following [Iowa State Extension’s general tree guidance](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/care-newly-planted-trees). Allow room for the mature canopy.