Acer saccharum, commonly known as the sugar maple, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It is well-known for its vibrant fall foliage, displaying brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and is characterized by its broad, lobed leaves and distinctive gray bark. The sugar maple is also famous for its sap, which is harvested to produce maple syrup. This process typically occurs in early spring when temperatures fluctuate between freezing and thawing. The tree thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and is commonly found in forests across the northeastern United States and eastern Canada.