Green Mountain Sugar Maple

Green Mountain Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Green Mountain')

Green Mountain Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Green Mountain') is a classic, time-tested cultivar known for its strong branching, heat tolerance, and outstanding fall color. Selected for its improved leaf scorch resistance and vigor, this sugar maple variety performs reliably across a range of conditions while maintaining the refined beauty and ecological value of the species. With its dense canopy and brilliant autumn hues, 'Green Mountain' remains a staple for shade, structure, and seasonal appeal.

Distinctive Features

'Green Mountain' grows 50 to 60 feet tall with a spread of 35 to 45 feet, forming a symmetrical, rounded canopy ideal for large lawns and public spaces. Its thick, dark green foliage resists heat-related stress and holds up well into fall, when it turns striking shades of gold, orange, and red. Compared to seed-grown sugar maples, it offers more consistent form, stronger wood, and better drought tolerance. Its traditional shape and predictable performance make it a reliable focal point in both rural and urban landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun is preferred for best color and structural development.
• Soil: Grows best in moist, well-drained, loamy soils; adapts to clay and sandy soils with adequate moisture.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist during establishment and dry spells.
• Humidity: Handles both humid and transitional climates; resistant to leaf scorch in hot weather.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8; cold hardy and reliable across much of the U.S.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Bold fall color and formal shape make it a natural centerpiece for larger landscapes.
• Shade Trees: Broad canopy provides dense, long-lasting shade for yards, patios, and parks.
• Residential Lawns: Excellent legacy tree for large properties and open planting areas.
• Parks and Campuses: Low maintenance and high-impact for institutional and civic landscapes.
• Windbreaks and Screening: Dense form and height provide effective wind protection in open areas.

Low Maintenance Care

Green Mountain Sugar Maple requires minimal upkeep once established. Its strong limbs, pest resistance, and low susceptibility to leaf scorch make it one of the most dependable sugar maple cultivars for low-maintenance landscapes.

• Watering: Water deeply during dry periods, especially in the first 2�3 years.
• Pruning: Little pruning required beyond occasional shaping or removal of damaged wood in late winter.
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring if soil conditions are poor or growth is sluggish.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to leaf tatter, scorch, and common maple pests under proper care.
• Winter Care: Cold hardy and well-adapted to harsh winter conditions with no special protection needed.

Why Choose Green Mountain Sugar Maple?

Green Mountain Sugar Maple offers the refined shape, dependable structure, and vivid fall color of a classic sugar maple, but with improved heat and drought resistance. It remains a go-to selection for traditional shade tree plantings in both public and private settings.

• Brilliant Fall Color: Reliable mix of red, orange, and gold foliage in autumn.
• Traditional Form: Strong central leader and rounded canopy make it landscape-ready.
• Heat and Drought Tolerant: Withstands summer stress better than seedling sugar maples.
• Clean Foliage: Glossy green leaves remain healthy and attractive through the growing season.
• Low Maintenance: Durable and self-sustaining once established.

For a classic look with modern reliability, Green Mountain Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum 'Green Mountain') is a proven performer with the strength and beauty to elevate any landscape.