Sugar maple is a majestic North American tree, 20–30 m tall, famed for maple syrup and fiery autumn colour. Five‑lobed leaves blaze orange, red and gold in October; clear sap rises each spring for syrup production. Best on deep, slightly acidic, well‑drained soils; intolerant of road salt or waterlogging. Hardy to −40 °C, it offers cool shade, high‑quality timber and four‑season beauty from smooth grey bark that furrows with age.