Bigtooth Maple
Acer grandidentatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bigtooth Maple (Acer grandidentatum) is a perennial tree native to TX. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bigtooth Maple as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
180"–480" H × 120"–180" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bigtooth Maple is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to the Texas Hill Country and western regions. It produces stunning orange and red fall colors that rival eastern maples, making it a prized landscape specimen. This drought-tolerant tree thrives in rocky, alkaline soils and provides excellent shade.
Growing Bigtooth Maple
Grow Bigtooth Maple in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 180 to 480 inches tall and spread 120 to 180 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bigtooth Maple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Tree size exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
- Best suited for backyard or with special approval
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators. The tree also provides nesting sites for birds and its seeds feed various wildlife species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bigtooth Maple need?
- Bigtooth Maple grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Bigtooth Maple bloom?
- Bigtooth Maple blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Bigtooth Maple native?
- Bigtooth Maple (Acer grandidentatum) is native to TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Bigtooth Maple toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bigtooth Maple as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Bigtooth Maple attract?
- Bigtooth Maple draws butterflies.
- Is Bigtooth Maple HOA-friendly?
- Bigtooth Maple takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bigtooth Maple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.