How to Identify Sugar Maple From Seeds

The seeds of the sugar maple are distinct from those of other types of maples. The sugar maple (Acer saccharum) is a broadleaf shade tree that is native to North America. It is best known for its plentiful supply of sap, which is used to make maple syrup. It has ornamental qualities as well. The leaves of the sugar maple turn a bright yellow or orange in the fall, which make for spectacular displays.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Check to see if the seed is found in double samara form. A double samara is a two-part winged fruit that is joined at the base of the seeds. According to the book "Trees of the Northern United States and Canada," all maples common to North America exhibit the double samara fruit. Other common trees, such as the ash tree, have single samara fruits.

   • 2

     Examine the seed portion of the fruit. Sugar maple seeds are round and plump. Other species of maple have a flatter shape.

   • 3

     Look at the angle between the outside edges of the wings of the fruit. In sugar maples, the wings are parallel or nearly parallel. The fruit as a whole will have a characteristic U-shaped appearance.