Commemoration Sugar Maple

Commemoration Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Commemoration')

Commemoration Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Commemoration') is a classic long-lived shade tree chosen for its strong structure, dependable growth, and the timeless look that makes sugar maples a signature tree in American landscapes. It develops a dense green canopy that provides real summer shade, then finishes the season with a rich fall display that can turn bright gold to warm orange in the right conditions. This is a tree that brings a sense of permanence, adding stature and value as it matures into a true landscape anchor. If you want a reliable focal point tree for a lawn, backyard, or large front yard, Commemoration Sugar Maple is an excellent choice.

Distinctive Features

The canopy is typically full and well-shaped, creating a clean, uniform look that feels established and intentional over time. Leaves have the classic sugar maple shape and texture, forming a dense shade canopy that cools outdoor living spaces in summer. Fall color is a major highlight, with warm tones that can light up the property and make the tree a seasonal centerpiece. With strong branching and a sturdy frame, this cultivar is often selected when you want a sugar maple that performs well in landscape settings and grows into a dependable, long-term tree.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; best growth and fall color in full sun.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil; slightly acidic to neutral is ideal.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment, then deep-water during prolonged dry periods.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8.
• Habit: Deciduous shade tree with an upright to rounded canopy.
• Mature Size: About 50 to 70 feet tall and 35 to 50 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a signature shade tree that anchors the landscape with canopy, height, and fall color.
• Backyard Shade: Provide cooling shade over lawns, patios, and outdoor living areas.
• Front Yard Specimen: Build curb appeal with a substantial tree that reads as timeless and established.
• Property Structure Planting: Add long-term scale and seasonal change behind layered plantings and along open edges.
• Large Lawn and Park Settings: A natural fit for open spaces where the full mature canopy can be appreciated.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during the first two seasons to establish roots; continue watering during drought for best canopy health and fall performance.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch mulch layer over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to develop strong branch structure and remove crossing or damaged limbs; maintain a strong central leader when young.
• Feeding: Fertilize lightly in spring if growth is slow; avoid overfeeding, which can push weak growth.
• Site Considerations: Provide adequate root space and avoid compacted soils when possible to support long-term performance.

Why Choose Commemoration Sugar Maple?

• Timeless Shade Tree Value: Delivers dense summer canopy and long-term landscape presence.
• Warm Fall Color: Provides a rich seasonal finish that can light up the property in autumn.
• Strong Structure: Develops a sturdy, well-shaped canopy that looks intentional as it matures.
• Long-Lived Landscape Anchor: A tree that adds permanence and value year after year.
• High Impact Focal Point: Creates a signature look in larger residential landscapes and open lawns.

If you want a classic sugar maple that grows into a substantial shade tree with strong structure and dependable fall color, Commemoration Sugar Maple delivers lasting focal point presence and long-term landscape value.