A maple is a type of tree known for its beautiful leaves and sweet sap. In autumn, maple leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making them one of the most spectacular trees to watch as seasons change. The leaves have a distinctive shape with pointed lobes that spread out like fingers on a hand.

Maples grow throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Some species, like the sugar maple, produce a watery sap that can be boiled down into maple syrup, the sweet, golden-brown liquid people pour on pancakes and waffles. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup, which helps explain why real maple syrup can cost more than other pancake syrups.

The wood from maple trees is hard and strong, making it valuable for furniture, baseball bats, and bowling lanes. Basketball courts are often made from maple because the wood can handle constant pounding without wearing out quickly.

Canada is so proud of its maple trees that the country put a red maple leaf right on its flag. In fall, entire forests of maples create landscapes so colorful that people travel hundreds of miles just to see them, a tradition called leaf peeping.