What are traits of a maple tree?

Maple trees are characterized by their distinct, palmate leaves that typically have five lobes, turning vibrant shades of red, orange, or yellow in the fall. They produce small flowers in the spring, which develop into winged seeds called samaras. Maple wood is highly valued for its strength and fine grain, making it popular in furniture and flooring. Additionally, certain species, like the sugar maple, are known for their sap, which is harvested to produce maple syrup.