Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

The sugar maple tree, is one of a number of maple species commonly planted for its shade and autumn colors. Growing to a height of 25 m, (80 ft), the sugar maple is distinguished by medium-green leaves. With the onset of autumn, the deeply lobed leaves turn a bright yellow. This is one of the trees that make the woods so beautiful in the fall where Jeremiah lives.

The species most commonly grown are medium to large deciduous (leaves fall off in the winter) trees with lobed “maple-shaped” leaves, such as the one depicted on the Canadian flag.

The tree (as all maples do) produces a winged seed that spirals to the ground when ripe.  Many birds and animals, especially squirrels, feast on these seeds.

From American Indians, our pioneer forefathers learned the art of making syrup from the sap of the native trees.  Sap is collected in the early spring and boiled until it thickens.  It takes about 30 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of syrup. 

The wood of the sugar maple is highly prized by furniture makers.  In the past, it was considered one of the very best sources of fuel.