Aptly named Red Maple, this tree produces scarlet fall leaves that add color from Eastern Minnesota all the way to the East Coast. This is one of the most prolific Maples in the U.S. and eastern Canada. Lumber is commonly substituted for hard maple as the grain is closed and working properties are similar. On a tasteful note, the best Maple syrup is harvested before the trees bud in the spring. After budding, the syrup flavor is off and is not used. The figured wood is available in long boards with even figure and white grain which is not common in Western Curly Maple.