Armstrong Gold® Freeman Maple

Acer × freemanii 'JFS-KW78' (PP25301)

This fast-growing, deciduous shade tree is a fantastic option for tight urban spaces due to its improved, rigidly columnar form that is denser and more compact than its predecessor, ‘Armstrong’. A hybrid between red and silver maples, it combines the best features of both parents: strong structure, adaptability to varied soils, and vigorous growth. Its medium green, deeply lobed foliage in the summer provides a classic look and transitions to outstanding shades of gold and orange in the fall, offering a reliable, brilliant seasonal display that the original ‘Armstrong’ sometimes lacked. The furrowed gray bark and distinctive brick-red branches provide multi-season interest in the landscape.

Type

Tree

Height

-40

Width

-12

Origin

MO Native

Foliage Type

Deciduous

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Average; best in well-drained, moist, organically rich soil, tolerates some drought once established

Foliage Color

Medium green in summer; vibrant gold-orange in fall

Flower Color

Reddish-green (insignificant)

Resists

Deer

Attracts

Bees
Birds
Pollinators

Design Use

Rain Garden / Wet Sites
Privacy / Screening

Special Traits

Showy Foliage
Fall Interest
Winter Interest
Pet Friendly

Hardiness Zones

4–9

Notes

Care: Pruning to a single central leader while the tree is young is vital for a strong structure. Prune in summer after leaves have fully developed, as it may “bleed” sap if pruned in late winter or early spring.
Soil & Establishment: This adaptable tree is highly tolerant of heavy clay and urban pollution. Provide consistent and even moisture during the first two growing seasons to ensure a robust, established root system.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring to support its fast growth rate.
Pests & Diseases: Generally low maintenance, but young plants may be susceptible to leafhoppers, scale, and borers.
Fruit/Berry Production: Flowers are followed by sparse fruit (winged samaras) in the spring.
Habitat: A hybrid with North American native parentage (Acer rubrum and Acer saccharinum), it does not have a natural wild habitat.
Wildlife: The small red flowers in early spring provide an early nectar source for bees and emerging pollinators.
Plant Uses: Street tree, vertical accent, narrow planting sites, or as a shade tree in small urban lots.
Pet Safety: Maples (Acer species) are generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats by the ASPCA, though ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.