C Red Maple
Other common names: Swamp Maple, Water Maple, Soft Maple
Scientific name: Acer rubrum
Conservation status: Least Concern
Some distinct features to recognize a Red Maple:
Softer and less dense wood, V-shaped notches which separate the 3-5 lobes on each leaf, unique buds. Leaf colour varies from green to red in the summer, dependent on light.
Despite being most commonly planted as ornamental trees, they’re an important source of food for moose, deer, rabbits, and other wildlife.The tree can withstand droughts by temporarily suspending growth to conserve water, but are highly susceptible to disease and pests.
Like other maple trees the sap is commonly used for maple syrup.The wood of the tree is becoming increasingly more popular in woodshop due to its soft nature. Commonly used in landscaping, as ornamental trees are fast and easy to grow. From an indigeonous perspective, maple trees were used to make spears, snowshoes, and sweeteners, as well as being used as a medical aid to soothe sore throats.
Red Maples in NorthAmerica:
ATHSC: Mainly found lined in between fields 5, 4, and 3. Cultivated (planted) on campus.