Common tree of wet habitats. Differs from var. rubrum in having smaller leaves that usually have 3 instead of 5 lobes and are more rounded at the base. Similar to var. drummondii, which has fuzzy leaf undersides and larger samaras.

Orange Co., NC 4/20/03.

The samaras are a brilliant red when they're young, later turning tan.

Scotland Co., NC 4/20/05.

Staminate (male) flowers. The flowers have a delicate sweet fragrance.

Moore Co., NC 3/14/07.

Detail of staminate flowers.

Moore Co., NC 3/14/07.

Bark of a medium-sized tree.

Orange Co., NC 4/20/03.