Medium sized, fast-growing tree, rounded crown and dense foliage. Opposite, deciduous, simple. Similar to sugar maple, usually wider than it is long. Sinuses between lobes rather shallow.
Petiole exudes a milky sap when broken.
Black, ridged, and furrowed with age. Greenish yellow in April, just before the leaves, then remaining after they have unfolded. Bright yellow-green, in erect, pubescent clusters. Wings divergent at nearly 180 degrees. Commonly planted in urban settings because of its resistance to smoke, dust, and inset pests.