Sugar Maple Tree Seeds (Acer saccharum)
Sugar Maple Tree Seeds (Acer saccharum)
The tree that defines autumn. The source of something sweet.
Acer saccharum, the Sugar Maple, is the tree that paints entire landscapes in brilliant fall color and produces the sap behind one of North America’s most iconic foods. Known for its fiery orange, red, and gold foliage, its long lifespan, and its ecological importance, this is a true legacy tree. It builds canopy, cools the land beneath it, and provides value for centuries. If you are planting for the long term, few trees offer more.
- Produces some of the most spectacular fall color of any native tree
- Primary source of maple syrup
- Foundational species in northern hardwood forests
- Long-lived, often exceeding several centuries
- Valuable hardwood used for flooring, furniture, and instruments
Things You Probably Didn’t Know
Maple syrup predates modern agriculture.
Indigenous communities were harvesting Sugar Maple sap long before European settlement. The knowledge was passed on and became essential for early survival in northern climates.
The fall color is chemistry at work.
The vibrant reds and oranges come from anthocyanin pigments produced as the tree prepares for dormancy. Sugar Maple produces these pigments in higher concentrations than most trees.
It represents an entire nation.
The Sugar Maple leaf is featured on the Canadian flag, reflecting its deep cultural and economic importance across the country.
It cools the land around it.
Mature Sugar Maple canopies create shaded microclimates that can be significantly cooler than surrounding open areas during summer heat.
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Acer saccharum
- Stratification: Required; 90–120 days cold moist stratification
- USDA Zones: 3–8
- Soil: Well-drained, rich, slightly acidic to neutral
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Height: 60–80 feet
- Spread: 40–60 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate (1–2 ft/year)
Plant it knowing it will outlive you. Some trees are not a purchase. They are a promise.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
