Bigleaf Maple
Acer macrophyllum · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (Wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5 through 9
About This Tree
A massive, spreading tree known for having the largest leaves of any maple. In landscape settings, it often develops a short, stout trunk that divides into several large, spreading limbs creating a broad, rounded crown. It is a moisture-loving, fast-growing tree that often hosts extensive colonies of moss and licorice ferns (epiphytes) on its bark in humid climates.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite leaves that are deeply 5-lobed and can reach 6 to 12 inches across (sometimes larger). Summer color is medium to dark green, turning yellow or golden-orange in the fall. Petioles contain a milky sap when broken.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown and relatively smooth when young, becoming deeply furrowed, ridged, and corky with age. In the Pacific Northwest, the bark is almost always obscured by thick mats of green moss.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America (from Alaska to Southern California)
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring; flowers emerge with or just before leaves in April-May; seeds ripen in autumn; enters winter dormancy after turning yellow-gold.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun to Partial Shade. Requires regular moisture and prefers deep, well-draining, moist soils; moderately drought-tolerant once mature but thrives with ground moisture.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 50 to 100 feet in height with a canopy spread of 30 to 60 feet. Growth rate is fast, especially when young.
Special Characteristics
Produces edible sap that can be made into syrup (though less sugar content than Sugar Maple). Highly valued for specialty lumber ('quilted' or 'birdseye' grain) used in musical instruments like guitars and violins. Exceptional fall color in temperate rainforest climates.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical ecological role: provides early-season nectar for bees and pollinators via hanging flower clusters. Seeds (samaras) provide food for squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. Large branches serve as significant nesting sites for various bird species and provide a unique micro-habitat for epiphytic mosses and ferns.