What Plant Looks Like a Maple Tree

Maple trees are treasured for their majestic appearance and the beautiful foliage they produce each fall. But did you know that there are other plants that closely resemble maples? In this article, we will explore some of the plants that look like maple trees and how to differentiate them from actual maple trees.

Sycamore Tree

The sycamore tree is often mistaken for a maple tree due to the shape and color of its leaves. Like maples, the sycamore has large leaves with five lobes, but the sycamore’s leaves are not as deeply incised. Additionally, the bark of the sycamore tree is distinctively mottled and peeling, unlike the smooth grey bark of maple trees.

Japanese Zelkova

The Japanese zelkova tree is often grown as a substitute for the popular but disease-prone American elm tree. Its leaves are similar to maple leaves in shape, but they are not as deeply lobed. Japanese zelkovas also have a more spreading, vase-like shape than maple trees, which have a more upright growth habit.

Sweetgum Tree

The sweetgum tree is often mistaken for a maple tree because of its star-shaped leaves, but a closer look will reveal that the leaves are not actually lobed like maple leaves. The leaves of the sweetgum tree are also noticeably thinner and more pointed. The bark of the sweetgum tree is also rough, with deeply furrowed ridges, compared to the smooth bark of maple trees.

Red Buckeye

The red buckeye is a small tree with leaves that look similar to those of a maple tree. However, the leaves of the red buckeye are arranged in pairs, unlike maple leaves which are single. The red buckeye’s leaves are also not as deeply incised as those of a maple tree. Additionally, the red buckeye produces stunning red flowers in the spring, which maples do not.

Conclusion

While there are several plants that may look similar to a maple tree, it is important to pay attention to the details to differentiate them. Pay attention to the shape and size of the leaves, as well as the bark and overall form of the tree. With a little observation, you can easily tell maple trees apart from their lookalikes.