Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (Wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-8; highly adapted to cool temperate climates with cold winters.
About This Tree
A large, stately tree with a dense, oval to rounded crown. Known for its slow-to-moderate growth rate and exceptional longevity, reaching massive sizes in mature forests. Features spectacular autumn colors and produces winged fruits (samaras).
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, 3-5 inches wide, with five deep lobes and u-shaped sinuses. Arranged oppositely on twigs. Dark green in summer turning brilliant yellow, orange, and red in autumn. Margins are generally smooth with few teeth.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown and smooth on young trees; becoming deeply furrowed with long, irregular, thick plates that tend to curl outward at the edges on mature specimens.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from south-eastern Canada to the northern United States.
Growing Season
Flowering occurs in early spring before leaves; leaves emerge in mid-spring; intense fall foliage in October; dormant during winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Moderately drought-tolerant once established but sensitive to salt and excessive heat.
Mature Size
Mature height of 60-80 feet with a spread of 30-60 feet. Growth rate is approximately 1 foot per year. Can live over 200-300 years.
Special Characteristics
Primary source for maple syrup production. Highly valued for timber (Hard Maple) due to its density and durability. Renowned for having the most vibrant fall colors among North American hardwoods.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides essential habitat and nesting sites for birds like Northern Cardinals and Woodpeckers. Seeds and buds provide food for squirrels and chipmunks. Early-season flowers are important for bees and other pollinators.