Maples

is a genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as MAPLES. The genus is placed in the family Sapindaceae. There are approximately 132 species, most of which are native to Asia, with a number also appearing in Europe, northern Africa, and North America. Only one species, Acer laurinum, extends to the Southern Hemisphere. The type species of the genus is the sycamore maple, Acer pseudoplatanus, the most common maple species in Europe. The maples usually have easily recognizable palmate leaves (Acer negundo is an exception) and distinctive winged fruits. The closest relatives of the maples are the horse chestnuts. Maple syrup is made from the sap of some maple species. It is one of the most common genera of trees in Asia. Some species of maple are extensively planted as ornamental trees by homeowners, businesses, and municipalities due to their fall color, relatively fast growth, ease of transplanting, and lack of hard seeds that would pose a problem for mowing lawns. Particularly popular are Norway maple (although it is considered invasive in North America), silver maple, Japanese maple, and red maple. Other maples, especially smaller or more unusual species, are popular as specimen trees. Welcome to other my foliage   tree groups: https://www.desktopnexus.com/groups/oaks-and-acorns/   https://www.desktopnexus.com/groups/rowans/   https://www.desktopnexus.com/groups/linden/   https://www.desktopnexus.com/groups/birches/