SafePlants

Black Maple (Acer nigrum)

The Black Maple, scientifically known as Acer nigrum, is a maple species closely related to the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum). It is sometimes even considered a subspecies of the Sugar Maple.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acer nigrum
• Common Names: Black maple, Black sugar maple, Hard maple, Rock maple
• Family: Aceraceae (Maple Family)
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Acer saccharum var. nigrum

Distribution and Habitat

• The Black Maple is found in eastern and central North America.
• It is present over most of Iowa, typically found on low lands.
• In Ontario, it is considered a less common variation of the Sugar Maple.
• It thrives on moist, high-pH soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• The Black Maple is a graceful tree.
• It typically reaches 60-80 feet tall at maturity with a trunk diameter of 2-3 feet.
• Leaves are opposite, simple, and palmately veined, measuring 3 to 6 inches.
• The older bark tends to be darker than that of the Sugar Maple.

Ecological Role

• This research project by McGill University on Kenauk territory assesses biodiversity in the canopy and understory of three tree species including Black Maple.

Similarities to Sugar Maple

• The Black Maple closely resembles the Sugar Maple in habit and range.
• It is very similar to the Sugar Maple, often leading to misidentification.
• Some botanists consider it a variety of the Sugar Maple rather than a separate species due to its close resemblance.