Acer macrophyllum (Big Leaf Maple)

Plant Description: Long-lived medium to large sized tree. Bigleaf maple has a broad, rounded crown with lateral branches that soar upward from a massive trunk. The bark is gray to reddish-brown and furrowed. With the largest leaves of all maples, they have five lobes reaching as much as 15 inches in diameter. The flowers, small, greenish-yellow, and fragrant, are produced in drooping clusters (racemes) appearing in early spring - usually April - before or with the leaves. The flowers and sap of the tree are edible. *NEVER CONSUME PLANTS WITHOUT PROPER ID* The seeds are winged samaras and are covered with very small, dense hairs that can be painful if touched by a naked hand. Fall color is yellow, orange or copper. Height: Rapidly grows 50-75 ft, occasionally reaching heights of 100 ft. Watering needs: Requires deep soakings during dry season until established Sun needs: Sun, partial shade Soil needs: Moist soil Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): Yes Landscape