Acer saccharum

Acer saccharum Details

Acer saccharum, commonly known as the Sugar Maple, is a large, deciduous tree grown for its bright autumn foliage and fabled, maple syrup. The leaves emerge light green in spring, quickly age to dark green, then develop spectacular yellow, orange and red tones in autumn before falling. It typically grows to 25 m tall and 15 m wide though a 10-year-old tree is typically just 5 m tall. Best results with this tree are achieved when it is planted in full sun on a well-drained site though it will grow on a range of soil types, except at the extremes of wet and dry. It is tolerant of wind, coastal environments, cool climates, and frost. Acer saccharum is a magnificent specimen which is ideal for large gardens, parks, or growing as a shade tree.