Acer rubrum, the red maple, also known as swamp maple, water maple, or soft maple, is one of eastern and central North America’s most widespread deciduous trees. The U.S. Forest Service recognizes it as the most abundant native tree in eastern North America.

With its remarkable adaptability, the red maple is easily identifiable and highly changeable in morphological characteristics. It is a medium to large-sized tree, capable of reaching up to 120 ft and over 135 ft in the southern Appalachians. The bark, initially a pale grey and smooth when the individual is young, darkens and cracks into slightly raised long plates as the tree matures.

The leaves of the red maple, arranged oppositely on the twig, are a sight to behold. Typically 2 – 4 inches long and wide, they boast three to five palmate lobes with a serrated margin. The influence of soil acidity on foliage coloration produces a stunning orange or red hue, with the most spectacular fall colors appearing in the cooler climates of the northern part of its range.

The tallest known living red maple is located near Armada, Michigan, at 125 feet.

Source: Wikipedia