All Species > Acer macrophyllum

Big Leaf Maple

Large-leafed native maple, slower to ramify; best in larger sizes or naturalistic styles.

Seasonal Care Guide

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  • Watering: Keep soil lightly moist to prevent desiccation during root activation.
  • Pruning: Perform final structural cuts before bud swell; avoid heavy pruning.
  • Wiring: Safe to wire before buds open, but wood is brittle—use caution.
  • Pests Disease: Clear debris to reduce overwintering pests.
  • Winter Protection: Provide root insulation; watch for late freezes.
  • Wound Management: Seal larger pruning cuts to reduce cold damage.

Placement & Seasonal Notes

  • Placement: Full sun
  • Notes: Hardy species; prefers consistent sunlight.
  • Winter: Fully hardy but mulch roots in extreme cold.
  • Summer: Water deeply and regularly in hot weather.

Leaf Traits

  • Persistence: Deciduous
  • Form: Broadleaf

Watering & Fertilization

  • Watering: Moderate
  • Notes: Avoid waterlogging; prefers well-drained soil.
  • Season: Spring → Autumn
  • Fertilization: Balanced
  • Notes: Feed monthly in growing season; reduce in late summer.

Training Techniques

  • Wiring: Spring or Autumn
  • Notes: Branches are brittle; wire when flexible.
  • Pruning: Structural in early spring, maintenance through summer
  • Notes: Hard prune before bud break to shape.
  • Repotting: Every 2-3 years
  • Notes: Use coarse mix; avoid overpotting.

Propagation

  • Method: Cuttings or seed
  • Notes: Seedling development takes time but worthwhile.

Zone 8b Considerations

Protect roots if temps < 20 F