ISU Forestry Extension - Tree Identification: Black Maple (Acer nigrum)

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Jesse Randall
Carol Elsberry
Claudette Sandoval-Green

Last Updated:

June 6, 2012

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Black Maple
(Acer nigrum)

Leaves are opposite simple.

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The black maple is found over most of Iowa, usually on low lands and moist slopes. It is very similar to the sugar maple and is often mistaken for it.

The leaves are three to five lobes, but with the lobes sharp pointed and not so deeply cut as the sugar maple. The leaves are dull green above and yellow-green below with soft hairs, especially along the yellow veins. The margins of the leaves droop, making them appear somewhat wilted.

Hardiness: Maples vary in hardiness. Most fall into zones 4 through 8, but some are less tolerant of cold or heat than others. When selecting a maple tree, be sure to select a species suited for Iowa’s weather.

Growth Rate: Maples vary in growth rate. Maples that are fast growing tend to have weak wood and may suffer from wind and ice damage. Slower growing maples have heavier, harder wood, making them less susceptible to branch and limb drop.

Mature Shape: Maples typically have a large, rounded crown. Tree canopies may be very dense or wide spreading.

Height: Mature height varies with species.

Width: Width varies with species.

Site Requirements: Maple trees perform best in moist, well-drained soils. Site requirements vary with the species of maple.

Flowering Dates:

Seed Dispersal Dates:

Seed Bearing Age:

Seed Bearing Frequency:

Seed Stratification:

The twigs are stout, light to dark gray, smooth and opposite on the stems. The fruit is a pair of winged seeds, ripening in autumn. The bark is very similar to the sugar maple, except that it is usually darker.

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Knowledge That Works The Iowa State Forestry Extension offers many educational opportunities and can also custom prepare forestry educational materials and programs to meet the needs of clients.
Where Can You Find Information? Contact: Dr. Jesse Randall by email or call 515-294-1168	Forestry Extension: [Topic of Discussion] Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management 339 Science II, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011-3221
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