Canada's national flag, often called the Maple Leaf, has a white central square between two vertical red bands, with a stylized red maple leaf at its center. Adopted in 1965, the flag has a 1:2 height-to-width ratio, and its simple, balanced design makes the leaf the clear focal point. The maple leaf has long been associated with Canada; its 11 points are a graphic emblem rather than a depiction of a particular maple species. The flag's red and white are Canada's national colors. Together, these features distinguish the national flag from the separate flags used by Canada's provinces and territories.