Red Maple, Acer rubrum
Sapindaceae or Soapberry Family
(the maples used to be separated out in their own family, the Aceraceae)
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Medium-sized tree with rough bark. Leaves with 3
main lobes, usually with two smaller lobes at base. Notches between lobes are moderately deep. All lobes are
coarsely toothed. Upper surface of leaves green, lower surface silvery. Twigs and leafstalks are red. Flowers red, in clusters. Fruits are paired samaras, also red, sharply angled downward,
forming a "helicopter." Blooms in early spring. Fall foliage usually brilliant red, but may be yellow or orange.
Native tree at home almost anywhere from swamps to dry soil, open sun to shady woods. Occasional in the Park. Silver maple leaves have 5 major lobes, with deep notches between them. Sugar maple leaves have only a few large teeth on each of their 5 lobes..
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