Which country’s national flag features a red maple leaf?

Canada’s national flag features a red maple leaf.

Known as the Maple Leaf flag, Canada’s current national flag has two vertical red bands surrounding a white square. A stylized 11-point red maple leaf occupies the centre. Parliament approved the design in 1964, and it was first raised on 15 February 1965.

The maple leaf had already become a symbol associated with Canada during the 19th century. It appeared in cultural organizations, military badges and earlier proposed flag designs. The leaf represents the country’s natural environment and became a unifying emblem for English- and French-speaking Canadians.

The flag’s precise design was selected after an extensive national debate about replacing the Union Jack-based Canadian Red Ensign. The 11 points do not represent provinces or territories; they are part of the leaf’s graphic design. Canada’s national flag is therefore distinct from provincial flags such as Ontario’s and Quebec’s.