Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Ornamental, Timber
Variety / Cultivar
None specified; typical native species.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-8. Highly cold-tolerant but sensitive to high heat in southern zones.
About This Tree
A large, stately tree with a dense, symmetrical, oval to rounded crown. Known for its moderate to slow growth rate and spectacular brilliant fall colors in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite arrangement, simple, 3 to 5 inches across with 5 lobes and moderately deep sinuses. Dark green above and pale green below; margins are relatively smooth compared to red maples.
Bark Characteristics
On young trees, bark is smooth and gray-brown. With age (as seen in image), it becomes deeply furrowed with long, vertical, thick plates that tend to curl outward along one edge. Frequent moss and lichen growth.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Northeastern North America, from Quebec to Tennessee.
Growing Season
Buds swell in early spring; flowers appear in April-May before leaves; dormancy occurs late autumn through winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Requires moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Low tolerance for road salt and compacted soil.
Mature Size
Height: 60 to 75 feet; Spread: 40 to 50 feet. Slow to moderate growth rate. Can live 200 to 400 years.
Special Characteristics
Primary source for maple syrup. Highly valued for timber (Hard Maple) for flooring and furniture. Renowned for world-class autumn foliage color intensity.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and small mammals. Important larval host for several moth species. Flowers provide early-season nectar for bees. Provides excellent nesting structure for songbirds.