Mountain Maple is a small, multi-stemmed, deciduous understory tree or large shrub reaching 10–20'. Upright clusters of pale yellow-green flowers bloom in late spring. Soft, green, toothed leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, or red in fall. Bark is smooth and gray on young stems.
Prefers part shade to full shade in cool, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates rocky, acidic conditions. Prune after leaf drop to shape or thin.