Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Soapberry Family (Sapindaceae)

Habitat:

This tree is found in wet woodland settings, but is commonly planted for ornamental purposes.

Leaves:

Oppositely arranged, palmate, and silver-colored underneath. They turn a brilliant red color in the fall.

Flowers:

Tiny and red, appearing before the leaves.

Fruit:

Red, shaped like a boomerang. It spins as it falls from the tree, looking like a tiny helicopter.

Helpful Tips:

Red Maples are native to Maine. Their range spreads over much of North America, as far west as Texas. For more information, see Audubon Trees or Flora of Maine.