Big Leaf Maple - č’uɫac - (Acer macrophyllum)
Big Leaf Maple is a deep-rooted, deciduous tree whose claim to spectacularness comes in the form of having the largest leaves of any maple. Typically, Big Leaf Maple leaves run 6 to 12 inches in span, with exceptional leaves spanning 24 inches. In autumn green leaves turn a glorious golden-yellow, made even more striking against the deep-green backdrop of the evergreen conifers they typically share surroundings with. Inconspicuous, greenish-yellow, pendulous flowers appear in the early spring before leaves and the tree produces a fruit/seedpod that comes in the form of a paired, winged samara. Its fruit, seeds, and foliage are enjoyed by a wide array of wildlife.
The tree provides a habitat for the barred owl, as well as some other birds, and can often be host to other plants such as club moss and licorice fern. Big Leaf Maple can be tapped for its sap to be made into syrup but isn’t commonly used for this purpose. It is used for lumber for a myriad of purposes. Many Native communities use its bark for rope and basket making, the wood for art and tools, and the leaves for containers for cooking.
*Prefers partial sun, but tolerant of full sun and shade.
*Prefers moist, alluvial, well-drained soil.
*Suitable in small forest openings, as a pioneer plant in fire-restoration, and in riparian hardwood forests. When planted in urban or suburban settings it is important to note that it should be planted away from buildings or walkways as the roots spread and can crack concrete or grow into plumbing pipes.
*Typically, 50 to 65 feet in height. Max height 158 feet. Generally, as wide spanning as they are tall.
*Sold Bare Root
*Sold in bundles 5
č’uɫac *Lushootseed provided by the Puyallup Tribal Language Program.