Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
Common species (Acer saccharum)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 8; cold hardy and adaptable to temperate climates.
About This Tree
A stately large tree with a dense, oval to rounded crown. Known for its symmetrical growth and magnificent fall color ranging from yellow to orange and bright red.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite arrangement; 3 to 6 inches long/wide; 5-lobed with deep U-shaped sinuses; medium green in summer, turning brilliant yellow, orange, and red in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown; smooth on young trees, becoming deeply furrowed with long, irregular thick plates or scales as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern North America (Eastern Canada and Northeastern United States)
Growing Season
Buds open in early spring; flowers appear with leaves in April-May; seeds ripen in fall; enters dormancy after vibrant fall foliage.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil; intolerant of wet or compacted soil; moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
60–75 feet tall and 40–50 feet spread; growth rate is slow to medium; can live 200–300 years.
Special Characteristics
Source of maple syrup; outstanding fall color; high timber value for furniture and flooring; sensitive to road salt and soil compaction.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and small mammals; browse for deer; critical nesting sites for various bird species; early season nectar source for pollinators.