Bur Oak vs Sugar Maple (Hard Maple) - TreeTime.ca

Bur Oak vs Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)

Quercus macrocarpa

Acer saccharum

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Bur Oak
Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)

Bur Oak has a wide distribution but is one of the only oaks that will grow well on the prairies. Bur Oak produces deeply lobed, dark green leaves that turn golden yellow to brown in the fall.

Its acorns are round and half enclosed by a mossy fringed cup.

Although slower growing, this long lived tree eventually becomes a popular large ornamental tree for driveways, parks, and the front of industrial buildings. Popular as a memorial or dedication tree.

Note: Most Oak species can be considered toxic for many animals.

Sugar Maple is a large, deciduous tree known for its brilliant fall yellow, orange, and red-orange color display.

This long-lived shade tree features unique "maple"
lobed leaves.

Note: this Zone 4 tree is unlikely to produce commercially viable sap on the prairies.

Bur Oak Quick Facts

Sugar Maple (Hard Maple) Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $5.99 - SAVE UP TO 54%
Zone: 2b
Zone: 4a
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Height: 20 m (66 ft)
Spread: 8 m (28 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no
Fall colour: yellow to golden brown
Nuts: small acorns
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: low
Suckering: none




Other Names: blue oak, burr oak, mossycup oak, scrub oak
Other Names: hard maple, rock maple