Buy Acer macrophyllum

Acer macrophyllum, commonly known as big leaf maple, is a majestic native tree. The growth habit can reach 50 to 100 feet tall - the king of the northwest woodland. Boasts the largest foliage of any maple reaching up to 12 inches across. The foliage is a lustrous dark green with 3 to 5 toothed lobes that takes on yellow to gold fall colour creating a gorgeous mat once fallen before fading to brown. Drooping clusters of yellowish-green flowers emerge before new foliage. The seeds are the typical paired winged helicopters, dispersed by wind, ripen in late summer. The deeply ridged bark creates an ideal habitat for epiphytes, mosses, lichens, ferns, woodland birds and insects. First Nations used the bark for rope, leaves for containers or in cooking pits, wood for useful items and art work. Sprouted seeds were also consumed. Maple syrup from the sap. Prefers a cool, moist environment. A great native tree for the landscape whether in larger yards or parks creating a shady and cool environment. Attracts song birds. Photo credit Wikipedia

There truly is not a finer shade tree than this magnificent large, spreading, western U.S. native named for its enormous leaves (up to 1' across!) which act like lattices, letting light through but not heat; trees in perfect conditions can reach heights of up to 160', although 50-60' is a more common size, pretty pale green flower clusters in spring give way to soft-brown winged samaras in fall along with its with striking yellow fall color; this fine maple is usually found growing in riparian areas; although not commonly done, it can also be used for maple syrup production . S-PSh/M-W

The Western Big Leaf Maple, or Acer macrophyllum, has quite possibly the largest leaves of any large broadleaf hardwood besides the Bigleaf Magnolia. When grown in full sun the leaves can reach a foot or more in length but it is in the shade when trees really reach their full beauty. At our nursery we have a tree in a shaded spot planted underneath some massive Douglas-fir trees and the leaves often reach a little over two feet in diameter! Fall color is bright yellow and makes an excellent show when the wind blows and the massive leaves come slowly floating to the ground, twirling the entire time.

Huge leaves - the size of dinner plates - and the tree itself can be a bulky forest giant. Generally found in moist areas and along streams, this Northwest native is probably best grown within its normal range. Mature size ranges from 45-60 ft. in cultivation, much larger in its native woods. Fall color is yellow, nothing to write home about.

This deciduous tree grows 40-100? making it a suitable choice for large gardens and parks. Squirrels & chipmunks relish seeds, and it provides valuable shelter for wildlife. Young trees appreciate some moisture, but once established they are fairly drought tolerant. On dry slopes, this tree will go dormant earlier. Make pruning cuts to remove dead or crossing branches when the tree is dormant. Flowers March ? May. Native to California and is also found elsewhere in North America and beyond. Squirrels & chipmunks relish the seeds. Seeds and flowers eaten by birds; Deciduous foliage provides good insect foraging for warblers, vireos, bushtits, and kinglets; Good for shelter and nesting. The stems and bark were traditionally used for basket weaving and in some cases, the inner bark was used for ceremonial dress. Found in streambanks, canyons. Communitites located in Yellow Pine Forest, Foothill Woodland, Chaparral, Valley Grassland, Wetland-riparian Between 0 and 6000 feet .

A deciduous, short-trunked tree growing to 60' with a broad, dense and round-topped crown. The large palmate leaves offer rich fall colors of yellow and gold. Fast growing and shade tolerant when young, but needs open light for best growth. Prefers deep, rich, well-drained soils with occasional summer water. Intolerant of heavy valley soils, it is a better choice for Northern California. Lewis and Clark were the first to collect this specimen. Native Americans used the wood for canoe paddles. Hardy to 0F. Pacific slope from British Columbia to San Diego.

Often overlooked by locals because it is common, the foliage effect can be quite tropical. Of course, not for the small garden as it can become a 50' T& W tree! This tree will change your entire environment all by itself!

For those with 1/2 acre for one tree, native bigleaf is just what you want. A U.S. native to most areas of western America, leaves can be one foot across. Fast grower will make shape quickly but isn't good to grow lawn under because it is too dark. Wonderful tree in correct spot.