The type of tree known to produce maple syrup is the sugar maple (Acer saccharum). This deciduous tree is primarily found in North America, especially in regions with cold winters and warm summers. Sugar maples are recognized for their vibrant fall foliage and distinctive lobed leaves. The sap harvested from these trees is rich in sugar and, when boiled down, transforms into maple syrup, a popular natural sweetener. The sugaring process typically occurs in early spring when temperatures rise above freezing during the day and fall below freezing at night, allowing for optimal sap flow.