Pacific Maple
Acer macrophyllum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Acer macrophyllum is a large deciduous tree native to California, Oregon, and Washington that blooms in April and May. This Pacific coast maple provides important habitat for bees and grows in varied light and moisture conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Pacific Maple as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pacific maple is a large, graceful native tree with broad leaves that turn golden yellow in fall. It produces drooping clusters of small greenish-yellow flowers in spring before the leaves emerge. This majestic tree is well-suited for spacious landscapes where it can reach its full size.
Growing Pacific Maple
Grow Pacific Maple in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 600 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pacific Maple is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires significant space due to large mature size
- Leaf drop in fall requires seasonal cleanup
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators with nectar and pollen. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, while the large canopy offers nesting sites and shelter.
Common questions
- When does Acer macrophyllum bloom?
- Pacific Maple blooms during April and May, producing clusters of small yellowish-green flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Acer macrophyllum?
- Bees are the primary pollinators of Pacific Maple flowers, visiting the spring blooms for nectar and pollen.
- Where is Acer macrophyllum native?
- Pacific Maple is native to the western United States, specifically California, Oregon, and Washington, typically growing in coastal and montane forests.
- What growing conditions does Acer macrophyllum prefer?
- This adaptable maple tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and grows well in medium moisture soils, though it can adapt to various water levels.
- Is Pacific Maple toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Pacific Maple as toxic to livestock.
- Is Pacific Maple HOA-friendly?
- Pacific Maple is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Pacific Maple? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz