Acer saccharum 'Steeple'

Steeple Sugar Maple

Acer saccharum ‘Steeple’ (Steeple® Sugar Maple) is a narrow, upright sugar maple selected for its tight pyramidal form, strong central leader, and excellent structural strength. It delivers classic sugar maple character in a space-efficient footprint, making it well suited to streetscapes and confined sites.

Key Characteristics and Benefits


Fall Color & Foliage: Deep green summer foliage turning golden yellow, orange, and orange-red in fall, with reliable color development.



Growth Habit: Narrowly pyramidal to columnar, maintaining a clean vertical profile with strong branch angles.



Structure: Selected for improved branching and long-term durability.



Size: Typically reaches 45–60 ft tall with a 12–18 ft spread.



Care and Requirements


Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Light: Full sun to partial shade



Soil: Performs best in well-drained, slightly acidic soils with consistent moisture



Maintenance: Low once established



Limitations: Avoid compacted soils, poor drainage, and heavy road salt exposure



Summary:
‘Steeple’ Sugar Maple is an excellent choice for narrow lawns, boulevards with proper soil preparation, formal plantings, and urban sites needing vertical emphasis, offering dependable structure and classic fall color.

Plant type

Shade Tree, Street Tree

Height

45-60'

Width

12-18'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Acidic, Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Fissured

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No