Matador™ Maple (Acer × freemanii ‘Bailston’)

Matador™ Maple (Acer × freemanii ‘Bailston’) is a cold-hardy hybrid maple selected for its strong structure, upright growth habit, and reliable red fall colour. A cross between red maple (Acer rubrum) and silver maple (Acer saccharinum), this variety combines adaptability with improved branching and durability.

Matador™ develops a symmetrical, upright oval canopy with medium green leaves that transition to vibrant red tones in autumn. It is known for its improved cold tolerance compared to some other Freeman maples, making it well-suited to Prairie climates and northern landscapes.

This tree is a strong choice for residential yards, boulevard plantings, and larger landscape spaces where a fast-establishing shade tree is desired. In Alberta, it performs well when planted in well-drained soil with adequate moisture during establishment.