Bigleaf Maple
acer macrophyllum
Also known as: ["Oregon Maple","Broadleaf Maple"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to western North America, known for its large leaves and vibrant fall color.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer macrophyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and moderate drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of problematic branches without over-thinning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight daily, with protection from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and adjust frequency based on season and soil moisture.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before growth; use half-strength for young plants; stop in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; seeds in fall after cold stratification.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; fall for seeds.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sterile potting soil with good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seedlings emerge in 1–3 months after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main branch; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or crossing branches to improve structure and air circulation; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch surface.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, discolor, or drop; growth slows or halts in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during growing season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest parts of Acer macrophyllum. The toxicity is low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of seeds, bark, or leaves of Acer macrophyllum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer macrophyllum, commonly known as Bigleaf Maple, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to potential irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Bigleaf Maple suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its large size, it is best suited for spacious landscapes.
Q: Does the Bigleaf Maple produce sap?
A: Yes, it is a source of maple sap, though not typically used for syrup production.
Q: How fast does the Bigleaf Maple grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, often reaching significant size within decades.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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