Bigleaf Maple

(Acer macrophyllum)

Bigleaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 3" - 141"
• High Temp. 53°F - 109°F
• Low Temp. 3°F - 48°F
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Summary

Acer macrophyllum, commonly known as Bigleaf Maple, is a deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, specifically thriving in moist, well-drained soils of forests, forest edges, and riparian zones. It can reach heights of 15–20 meters (50–65 feet) with a broad and rounded crown. The bark is gray-brown, becoming darker and more ridged as the tree matures. The species is notable for its exceptionally large leaves, which are the largest of any maple, typically measuring 15–30 centimeters (6–12 inches) across with five deeply incised palmate lobes. These leaves contain a milky sap and are known for their spectacular gold and yellow autumn coloration, providing a striking visual display against the evergreen conifers of its native habitat. The yellowish-green flowers are modest and appear in drooping clusters in early spring, before the foliage emerges. Bigleaf Maple is also a valuable ecological species, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife.

Bigleaf Maple is appreciated for its grand stature, shade-providing canopy, and especially its vibrant fall foliage. It is used in urban and residential landscapes, parks, and as a street tree. This maple is relatively easy to grow, tolerating a range of soil conditions from well-drained to somewhat waterlogged soils and can thrive in full sun to part shade. While it is adaptable, it prefers moist, fertile soils. It is not typically prone to serious disease or pest problems, but can suffer from verticillium wilt and phytophthora root rot in poor drainage conditions. It is also important to note that the Bigleaf Maple can be a prolific seeder and may become invasive in some conditions outside its native range. Gardeners should be aware of local regulations and its potential to spread before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 50-115 feet
  • Width: 40-75 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control

Natural Habitat

Native to moist, well-drained soils of forests, forest edges, and riparian zones in the Pacific Northwest of North America

Other Names

Common Names: Oregon Maple, Pacific Maple, Big-Leaved Maple, Broad-Leaved Maple, Canyon Maple, Big Leaf Maple, Érable À Grandes Feuilles, Jättelönn

Scientific Names: Acer macrophyllum, Acer flabellatum, Acer stellatum, Acer auritum, Acer hemionitis, Acer leptodactylon, Acer macrophyllum var. normalis, Acer platypterum, Acer politum

GBIF Accepted Name: Acer macrophyllum Pursh