Black Maple
Acer nigrum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
300"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Black maple is a stately native shade tree that develops a broad, rounded crown with age. It produces beautiful yellow-orange fall color and grows at a moderate pace, making it an excellent choice for larger residential properties.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Maple takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large mature size inappropriate for most residential lots
- Deciduous nature creates significant leaf litter
Wildlife value
Host plant for luna moth, rosy maple moth.
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles, while the seeds feed birds and small mammals. The large canopy provides important nesting habitat and shelter for various wildlife species.
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 Black Maple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.