Red Maple
Acer rubrum · Sapindaceae (Soapberry family, traditionally placed in Aceraceae)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Palmate-lobed with 3 to 5 distinct lobes and serrated margins
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed edges along the lobes)
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Palmate venation with primary veins radiating outwards from the base of the leaf blade.
Key Features
Opposite leaf arrangement, 3 to 5 pointed lobes with serrated margins, V-shaped sinuses between the lobes, and bright red autumn foliage.
Description
A striking deciduous tree leaf displaying intense autumn color. The red maple is celebrated for its brilliant fall foliage display, fast growth, and adaptability. The tree features smooth gray bark when young that becomes dark and furrowed with age, and small red flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge.
Habitat
Typically found in deciduous forests, moist woods, swamps, and along stream banks, though highly adaptable to various soil types and moisture levels.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from southeastern Canada down to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota. Widely planted as an ornamental tree globally.