Types Of Maple Trees
A Quick Guide to Different Types of Maple Trees
Landscaping involves strategic planning of complementary plants and trees, and the different types of maple trees available to include offer many colors, shapes and sizes to fit any scheme.
There are several considerations that need to be addressed when choosing the right type of maple trees for your landscape. One is space; do you have a large or small area to be landscaped? A second consideration is your region; which types of maple trees grow best in your growing zone? And last is coloration; what effect are you trying to achieve?
With so many different types of maple trees, there will certainly be at least a few that will fit your particular landscape scheme. By narrowing down the varieties according to your specifications, you will be able to determine which trees to choose. There are some types, however, that seems to be the most popular and may provide a starting point.
The sugar maples, also called a swamp maple in some areas, are the types of maples trees used for making maple syrup. Commonly found growing in the wild, these trees are found in all but the most southern of states. Besides the benefit of the high sugar content in their sap, these trees also have strong, hard wood that is used for making furniture, flooring and musical instruments.
The silver maple variety is one of the most popular types of maples trees, especially for shade. A fast growing tree, the silver maple is also known for the grand heights it achieves at maturity; it is not uncommon for this maple to be 70 feet tall with a 60 foot spread. Best used in large landscapes such as parks, common areas and in the wild where few other trees can exist.
Red maples are beloved for their extreme fall coloration. Exploding into a crimson display when the nights begin to turn cool, many of the red maple varieties are used for lining boulevards, driveways and shading in public parks. In addition to their incredible color value, these types of maple trees can also be used for making maple syrup.
A particularly lovely tree used for landscaping is the Japanese maple. These types of maple trees can be quite small, used in container plantings, bonsai plantings and around patios, decks and porches; providing a beautiful accent with other flowers and plants. Their rich burgundy colors throughout the year make them particularly favored for use in small yards, yet larger varieties can reach up to 30 feet, making them ideal for use in large landscapes, as well.
There are many types of maple trees from which to choose when planning a landscape. Check with a local nursery to determine first which of the maples grow best in your region. Then it is a simple manner of narrowing your search to the size, shape and color of the types of maple trees that will best fit your specific needs.