Description
Latin Name: Acer saccharum
Common Names: Rock Maple, Hard Maple
Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Mature Height: Typically grows between 40-100 feet (12-30 meters) tall. It features a round, dense crown and has a slow growth rate, though it grows more rapidly during its first 35 years. The tree has a long lifespan.
Soil / Climate: Thrives in medium, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows best in slightly acidic, rich soil but does not fare well in heavy, poorly drained soils. It is sensitive to road salt and urban pollution. Cold-resistant, it is native to northeastern and central North America.
Notes: The Sugar Maple’s leaves are 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) wide with 3-5 lobes and are medium green. They turn yellow or orange in the fall, although the exact color can vary. In early spring, the tree produces yellowish-green flowers in clusters at the ends of 1-3 inch (2-8 cm) long stems. These flowers develop into two-winged samaras, which are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and turn brown when mature in the fall. The bark is brown and becomes darker and more ridged as the tree ages, with long, hard ridges. The twigs are brown with some scales and have pointed buds. Historically, Native Americans were the first to produce syrup from this tree’s sap, which is also used for maple syrup today. It makes an excellent shade tree and is a national symbol.
Problems: The Sugar Maple generally faces few major issues but can be susceptible to anthracnose, leaf spot, Verticillium wilt, tar spot, and cankers. It may also be affected by borers, scale, and aphids. During drought conditions, leaf scorch may occur.
Wildlife: The seeds of the Sugar Maple are eaten by various mammals and birds.
Cold Stream Farm supplies Sugar Maple trees which are grown as bare root seedlings and transplants and sold both wholesale and retail with no minimum order.
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