academics
“I used a lot of the research and writing techniques I learned in my philosophy and media studies classes. Now that I know I can do something as large as this project, I have a new sense of confidence.”
Andrew Baker, Communication Studies
Sugar Maple Acer saccharum
Maple Aceraceae family
Leaves are 5-lobed, with a "U" shape in the lobe. They are pale underneath, and 2 - 10" long. These leaves turn orange to yellow in the fall.
Flowers are yellow, and hang in clusters. They bloom in May.
Fruit is a samara following the flowers, 1 1/2" x 1 1/8" long on a fairly short stalk.
Bark is brown-gray, and older bark is vertically ridged and rough.
Form/Habitat: Sugar maple is a common tree in our woods, and has a roundish shape. It is a large tree, 40 - 60' tall, and 1 - 2' in diameter.
Interesting Fact: These are the trees that are tapped for maple syrup, and the trees that line Main Street on our campus front lawn.
Winter identification: Twigs are reddish brown, glossy, and straight. There is a long pointed end bud, and pointed side buds at the end of the twig. Think "sugar - sharp."
NWI Status: FACU-
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