BigLeaf Maple
General Facts
The Acer macrophyllum, also known as the BigLeaf Maple, is a broad leaved angiosperm (dicot). It can grow up to 100 feet tall, and 4 feet in diameter. The bark is grayish/reddish. This amazing tree originated in the Pacific Northwest, and is now found south from southernmost Alaska to southernmost parts of California.
BigLeaf Maple leaves
BigLeaf Maple from a distance
BigLeaf Maple Bark
Ethnobotany
The BigLeaf Maple was used medicinally by the Native Americans as a cure to sore throat. They ate the sprouted seeds as food, and in some cases they rubbed the leaves on the face of young boys so they wouldn't grow thick beards. They used the bark and wood to create paddles.
Also, Maple syrup is extracted from these beautiful trees. Moss grows on the trunks of these trees because of there watery setting.
Needs and Facts
BigLeaf Maples need a lot of water to survive. If little water is supplied then the roots grow shallow. The root system of BigLeaf Maples are fibrous roots that grow shallow. Because of this they are a nuisance if grown near concrete. These trees are found by the creekside usually.
Life Cycle
Adult BigLeaf Maples create seeds or fruit called paired winged samara. They get pollinated by wind blowing the seeds of and their pinecones also move for wind and humans. They usually are produced during spring. They then grow to complete cycle.