Botanical profile

Acer saccharum

Latin name
Acer saccharum
Common name
Sugar maple
Type
TREE
Family
Sapindaceae

Acer saccharum is a majestic and iconic ornamental tree, better known as the sugar maple, renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a striking colorful display in beds, avenues, or large gardens. Its elegant pyramidal shape harmoniously structures the landscape throughout the season, offering a lasting and balanced visual presence. Very hardy and well-adapted to cold climates, this maple prefers a sunny to partial shade exposure and fertile, moist, well-drained soil, where it thrives without particular requirements. Its ability to combine color, shape, and longevity makes it a top choice for residential landscapes, parks, or public developments.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3–8
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate to regular
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Fertile, moist and well-drained
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Subtle greenish-yellow (spring)
Fruiting
Decorative Samares
Foliage color
Green ? yellow, orange, red (autumn)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Pyramidal / Upright
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
15–25 m (49–82 ft)
Width
10–15 m (33–49 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.