Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Sapindaceae (Soapberry family, traditionally placed in Aceraceae)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Palmate, typically 5-lobed with deep sinuses
Margin
Serrate with coarsely toothed lobes and distinct U-shaped sinuses
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Palmate venation with 5 primary veins radiating from the base
Key Features
Opposite simple leaves with 5 lobes having few teeth, U-shaped sinuses, and clear sap (distinguishing it from Norway maple which has milky sap)
Description
A classic medium to large deciduous tree known for its dense canopy, hard wood, and stunning fall color. The leaves feature five distinct lobes with smooth U-shaped sinuses between them.
Habitat
Rich, moist, well-drained upland forests, tolerant of shade in understory conditions
Native Range
Native to hardwood forests of northeastern and midwestern North America, extending north into Canada and south to the uplands of the American South