Moose Maple
Acer spicatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
180"–360" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, GA, IA and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Moose maple is a small native tree with attractive palmate leaves and yellowish-green flower clusters in late spring. This understory species naturally develops a multi-stemmed form and provides excellent fall color in shades of yellow to orange-red.
In an HOA neighborhood
Moose 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.
- Multi-stemmed growth appears informal and shrub-like
- Large mature size may overwhelm smaller residential lots
- Understory nature makes it look less refined than typical landscape trees
Wildlife value
Host plant for Rosy maple moth, Cecropia moth.
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, while the foliage serves as browse for wildlife.
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 Moose Maple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.