Black Maple (Acer nigrum) is a deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States and parts of Canada. It is closely related to the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) and thrives in similar habitats, such as rich, moist woodlands. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Black Maple serves as a canopy species in food forests, providing essential shade and habitat for a variety of wildlife. Its dense foliage and extensive root system are effective in preventing soil erosion and enhancing soil health. Historically, the sap has been tapped for syrup production, and the wood is prized for its durability in furniture making. Black Maple is often found in guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover and supports a diverse understory of shade-tolerant species.
Growing Details
Black Maple thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with consistent moisture. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with wood chips or leaf litter helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in compacted or poorly drained soils. Harvest sap in late winter to early spring when temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing. Store syrup in a cool, dark p
Edible Parts
Sap
Tags
Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal Sweetener
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Acer nigrum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to eastern and central United States a
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The sap of Black Maple can be tapped and boiled down to produce maple syrup, a natural sweetener rich in minerals such as manganese and zinc. The syrup is typically harvested in late winter to early spring when the sap flow is optimal.
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the inner bark has been used in herbal remedies, though it is not widely recognized for medicinal purposes today. Caution is advised as improper use can lead to adverse effects.
health concerns:
other uses: The wood is used for furniture, flooring, and as a source of firewood. The tree is also valued in landscaping for its aesthetic appeal and ability to support biodiversity.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Acer nigrum</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Acer nigrum
common names: Black Maple; Hard Maple; Black Sugar Maple
family: Sapindaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Acer
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -34ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(4/10)
first harvest: 40 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Medium
max height: 25.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Black Maple thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with consistent moisture. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with wood chips or leaf litter helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in compacted or poorly drained soils. Harvest sap in late winter to early spring when temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing. Store syrup in a cool, dark p
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids, scale insects, and leafhoppers. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help repel pests. For fungal diseases like tar spot and verticillium wilt, ensure good air circulation and remove affected leaves promptly. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage pest outbreaks.
Growth Timeline
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