Bigleaf Maple
Acer macrophyllum
Also listed as Acer auritum, Acer coptophyllum
Also known as Oregon Maple, Canyon Maple, Pacific Maple
Climate Match for your location
See how well Bigleaf Maple grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
A large deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest with enormous deeply lobed leaves that turn golden in fall. It thrives in cool, moist climates and provides excellent shade and visual interest.
Why grow it
Bigleaf maple outperforms most shade trees in the Pacific Northwest for rapid growth and dramatic summer foliage effect, with leaves often exceeding 12 inches across. Unlike smaller maples or oaks, it reaches mature size (50-70 feet) quickly in optimal conditions, making it valuable where fast canopy establishment matters. The species tolerates wetter soils than most maples, broadening its utility in poorly drained sites common to coastal and mountain regions.
Watch out for
This species produces abundant seed helicopters that self-sow prolifically in nearby disturbed soil; regular removal of seedlings prevents volunteer trees. The soft wood and heavy canopy make it susceptible to branch breakage in strong wind, so site it away from structures or establish it in wind-protected locations. Dense shade cast by the enormous leaves suppresses understory growth more completely than smaller-leaved maples, limiting companion planting options.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (California to British Columbia)
Native to: California, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A large deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest with enormous deeply lobed leaves that turn golden in fall. It thrives in cool, moist climates and provides excellent shade and visual interest.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Bigleaf Maple grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Bigleaf maple outperforms most shade trees in the Pacific Northwest for rapid growth and dramatic summer foliage effect, with leaves often exceeding 12 inches across. Unlike smaller maples or oaks, it reaches mature size (50-70 feet) quickly in optimal conditions, making it valuable where fast canopy establishment matters. The species tolerates wetter soils than most maples, broadening its utility in poorly drained sites common to coastal and mountain regions.
Watch out for
This species produces abundant seed helicopters that self-sow prolifically in nearby disturbed soil; regular removal of seedlings prevents volunteer trees. The soft wood and heavy canopy make it susceptible to branch breakage in strong wind, so site it away from structures or establish it in wind-protected locations. Dense shade cast by the enormous leaves suppresses understory growth more completely than smaller-leaved maples, limiting companion planting options.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (California to British Columbia)
Native to: California, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.