black maple

plant

Also known as: Acer nigrum

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Last updated

July 17, 2026

Quick Summary

The black maple, scientifically known as Acer nigrum, is a type of sugar maple characterized by its black bark and dark, soft leaves. It is also referred to as the black sugar maple. This tree is native to eastern North America and is commercially significant for its hardwood lumber, used in furniture and flooring.123

While the sugar maple (Acer saccharum) is widely recognized as a source of maple syrup and sugar, the black maple is also considered a sugar maple and a source of syrup. The sap from these trees can be tapped to produce syrup, with the characteristic flavor and color developing during the evaporation process. The black maple's wood is also utilized for lumber.31

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maple syrup
…sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and black maple (Acer nigrum). Some botanists consider the second to be a subspecies of the first, but in any event the flavour of their syrups is nearly indistinguishable, with a rich, hearty taste that is not overwhelmingly sweet. The black maple, however, is less abundant…
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…sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and black maple (Acer nigrum). Some botanists consider the second to be a subspecies of the first, but in any event the flavour of their syrups is nearly indistinguishable, with a rich, hearty taste that is not overwhelmingly sweet. The black maple, however, is less abundant…
Read More