SafePlants

Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

The Sugar Maple, scientifically known as Acer saccharum, is a prominent tree species with several common names, including hard maple and rock maple. Its significance is deeply rooted in North American culture and ecology.

Considerations for Pets

• Sap: The text mentions sap collection for syrup production, and while generally considered non-toxic, ingestion of large quantities of plant material by pets may cause digestive upset.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acer saccharum Marsh.
• Common Names: Sugar Maple, Hard Maple, Rock Maple
• Family: Aceraceae (Maple family) / Sapindaceae (soapberry family)
• Synonym: Rock Maple, Hard Maple
• Symbol: ACSA3
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety (var. schneckii)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the hardwood forests of eastern Canada and the northeastern part of North America.
• Specifically mentioned regions include Nova Scotia, New York State, Funks Grove (Illinois), Ontario, Kentucky, and Minnesota.
• Restricted to regions with cool, moist climates, typically experiencing January temperatures averaging around -18°C (0°F) and July temperatures around unspecified degrees Celcius.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Reaches heights of nearly 100 feet with a diameter of 2 feet or more.
• Hard-wooded tree with a moderate to slow growth rate, typically growing to 60-80 feet tall.
• Leaves are opposite, simple, and palmately veined with 3 to 6 lobes. A variety (var. schneckii) in southern Illinois has leaves with softly pubescent undersides.
• In spring, the tree produces numerous yellow flowers.
• Grows well in fertile, moist soil.

Ecological Role

• The Sugar Maple is economically and ecologically important in the eastern United States and Canada.
• Its sap is used for commercial syrup production, having twice the sugar content of other maple species.
• It is a favorite shade tree with reliable fall color.

Quirky Facts

• The Sugar Maple leaf is featured on the Canadian flag, illustrating its cultural importance.
• It is the state tree of Wisconsin, selected by schoolchildren.
• While most sugar maples have glabrous (smooth) leaves, the variety schneckii found in southern Illinois and further south has leaves with softly pubescent undersides.

Further Information

• Arborday.org offers information on Sugar Maple size, height, growth rate, sun and soil preference.
• University of Idaho College of Natural Resources provides information via the Alternative Tree Crops Information Series No. 8.
• Ontario Trees and Shrubs offer photos and information.