Acer rubrum, the red maple, is also known as swamp, water or soft maple. It is one of the most common deciduous trees in eastern and central North America. It has an average life span of 80 - 100 years. On average they grow 12-18 inches per year and may grow 40 - 70 feet tall with a spread of 30-50 feet. Choose a wet site located in full sun or partial shade. The soil type should be acid to neutral. Alkaline soil can lead to pale, sickly leaves and poor growth.