Acer rubrum (Red Maple)

Native to eastern Canada and the central and eastern United States, this deciduous tree commonly grows 40 to 70 feet tall. It occurs in habitats ranging from wet lowlands to upland forests. Clusters of red flowers appear before the leaves, followed by paired winged fruits that are carried by the wind. Autumn foliage varies from yellow and orange to scarlet, and many cultivars have been selected for consistent color and crown shape. Its wilted or dried leaves are highly poisonous to horses. Photographed in Washington, DC.