Maple

Maple is a genus of trees and shrubs in the genus Acer, in the soapberry family Sapindaceae.

Maple is a genus of trees and shrubs in the genus Acer, in the soapberry family Sapindaceae. Maples are known for their lobed leaves, winged samara fruits, and prominent autumn colour, and they are widely planted as ornamentals and valued for timber and syrup production.

Taxonomy and diversity

Maples are a genus of woody plants in Acer, placed in the family Sapindaceae. Sources vary on the exact number of species, but typically describe roughly 130 to 200 species worldwide.

Physical characteristics

Maples usually have palmate leaves with three to five lobes, although leaf shape varies by species. They produce paired winged fruits called samaras and often develop distinctive red, orange, or yellow autumn colour.

Uses and economic importance

Maples are widely planted as ornamental trees and are also important for timber, woodworking, and syrup production. Maple wood is valued for hardness and appearance, while sap from certain species is processed into maple sugar and maple syrup.

Distribution and habitat

Maples are native mainly to temperate regions of Asia, Europe, North Africa, and North America. They occur in a range of habitats and are especially diverse in East Asia.

Cultural significance in Canada

Maple leaves and maple trees are closely associated with Canadian identity. Maples also have longstanding Indigenous and regional uses in what is now Canada, including wood, bark, and medicinal applications.