When we think of spring wildflowers, we often envision bluebells and trout lilies. Many types of trees, however, also bloom in the spring and often go unnoticed except for those allergic to their pollen. Of the several kinds of wind-pollinated trees in this area, one of most colorful is the red maple, especially when viewed close up. Even though individual flowers are small the overall effect of a large tree in bloom can be quite spectacular.

In our state, the maples tend to bloom in late March or in April. Since they are wind-pollinated they produce no scent or nectar. They do have 5 small petals - a feature not found in all wind-pollinated species. Each tree usually has different male and female flowers on separate branches. Some flowers may also be “perfect”—having both male stamens and female pistils. Female flowers tend to be showier with redder color. Male flowers have between 4 and 12 stamens, but the usual number is 8. The flowers occur in clusters on or near the tips of branches. The male flowers produce large amounts of pollen that is light enough to blow in the wind for a considerable distance. Tree pollen is responsible for a lot of spring hay fever symptoms in humans.

When the egg is fertilized the fruit that develops is called the samaras—the single-winged helicopter fruit typical of the maple trees. These are formed in pairs and are dispersed during a period of 1 to 2 weeks from April through July. The red maple tree is a common medium-sized native tree in the woods of eastern United States and a popular yard ornamental tree.