Red Maple (also known as Swamp, Water, or Soft Maple)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Sapindales, Family: Sapindaceae, Genus: Acer, Species: Acer rubrum · Sapindaceae (Maple family) · Simple; Deciduous
Species
Acer rubrum
Leaf Type
Simple; Deciduous
Family
Sapindaceae (Maple family)
Shape
Palmate with 3 to 5 lobes (the specimen shown clearly exhibits 3 primary lobes with a shallow base)
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches in length and width; this specimen appears to be on the smaller side of the typical 2-6 inch range.
Margin
Serrate (toothed or jagged) edges, distinctly different from the smooth margins of Sugar Maples
Arrangement
Opposite (though only a single leaf is shown, this is a defining characteristic of the genus Acer)
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most abundant and widespread deciduous trees in eastern North America.
Color & Pattern
Medium green upper surface with lighter green veins; shows signs of interveinal chlorosis (yellowing between green veins). Autumn colors typically range from brilliant red to orange.
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation with three main veins radiating from the base of the blade
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) upper surface; the underside is typically lighter, often silvery-white or glaucous.
Description
A medium to large-sized tree reaching 60-90 feet. It features a rounded crown and smooth grey bark when young, becoming furrowed and plate-like with age. It is famous for its vibrant red flowers in early spring and brilliant red autumn foliage.
Key Features
Reddish petioles, V-shaped sinuses between lobes, and sharply serrated margins. The broken-up serrations distinguish it from the smooth-edged Sugar Maple.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in swamps, moist woodlands, and upland slopes. Thrives in sun to partial shade.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Quebec to Florida and west to east Texas.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; the yellowing between veins (interveinal chlorosis) suggests a potential nutrient deficiency, likely iron or manganese, often caused by high soil pH.
Interesting Facts
It is the state tree of Rhode Island. While it can be tapped for syrup, its sap has half the sugar content of the Sugar Maple and the season is much shorter as the buds break earlier.
Medicinal & Uses
Used for 'soft maple' lumber, crates, and furniture. Native Americans used the bark as an infusion for sore eyes and cramps. Highly valued in landscaping for its fast growth and fall color.
Ecological Role
Provides early spring nectar for bees from its flowers. Seeds (samaras) are eaten by birds and squirrels. It is a larval host for several moth species.
Similar Species
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) has smooth margins; Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) has much deeper, narrower sinuses and a more silvery underside.
Foraging Tips
Look for opposite branching and red buds in winter. In early spring, look for the clusters of small red flowers before leaves emerge. Best identified in fall by its namesake red color.
Toxicity Warning
Leaves are toxic to horses, especially when wilted or dried, causing hemolytic anemia. Non-toxic to humans, though the seeds and sap should be processed appropriately if consumed.