Unique Features: The Highland Park is usually considered a hybrid between the eastern Sugar maple and the western Bigtooth or Canyon maple. These two lines of maples are very close genetically, to the point of graft compatibility. The Highland Park is one of the fortunate hybrids that end up with the best of both sides. From the eastern heritage it benefits from a larger size, faster growth rate, higher sugar content in the sap, and better fall color. From the western side it has improved heat and drought tolerance, thicker and more tatter resistant leaves, and a little bit better tolerance of higher pH soils. The result is a respectably sized tree with a good growth rate, which is water thrifty and virtually free of disease and insect problems. And you can make sugar from the sap!