Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum
Sapindaceae
Description
The Sugar Maple is one of the most important hardwood trees in North America. Known for its brilliant fall colors and being the primary source of maple syrup, this tree is a staple of northeastern forests. In Buffalo, Sugar Maples line many streets and parks, providing excellent shade in summer and spectacular orange and red foliage in autumn.
Characteristics
Leaf Type
simple
Leaf Shape
palmately lobed with 5 lobes and smooth edges
Height
60-80 feet
Bark
gray with long vertical plates that curl outward on mature trees
Fruit
paired samaras (helicopter seeds)
Flowers
greenish-yellow
Identification Tips
- • Look for opposite leaf arrangement with 5-lobed leaves
- • Leaves have smooth edges unlike Red Maple's serrated edges
- • Bark develops distinctive vertical plates on mature trees
- • Clear sap (not milky like Norway Maple)
- • Fall colors are typically orange and red
Seasonal Changes
Spring
Produces small greenish-yellow flowers before leaves emerge
Summer
Dense canopy provides excellent shade with dark green leaves
Fall
Spectacular display of orange, red, and yellow foliage
Winter
Gray bark becomes more prominent; buds are pointed and brown
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Soil Preference
well-drained, slightly acidic, loamy
Sun Requirements
partial shade
Image Gallery
Leaves
Bark
Winter