Rocky Mountain Maple
Acer glabrum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rocky Mountain Maple (Acer glabrum) is a deciduous native tree found across western North America from Arizona to Montana. This adaptable maple blooms in May and June, attracting bees and beetles as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Rocky Mountain Maple as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 72"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rocky mountain maple is a small to medium-sized native tree with attractive green leaves that turn brilliant yellow, orange, or red in fall. This adaptable maple grows well in partial shade and develops a rounded crown that provides excellent seasonal interest.
Growing Rocky Mountain Maple
Grow Rocky Mountain Maple in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 120 to 360 inches tall and spread 72 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rocky Mountain Maple is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The tree also provides nesting sites for birds and its seeds feed various wildlife species.
Common questions
- Where does Rocky Mountain Maple naturally grow?
- Rocky Mountain Maple is native to 13 western states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- When does Acer glabrum bloom?
- Rocky Mountain Maple typically blooms during May and June, producing small flowers that attract various pollinators including bees and beetles.
- What growing conditions does Rocky Mountain Maple prefer?
- This adaptable maple tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and can grow in various moisture levels from dry to moist soils.
- What pollinators visit Rocky Mountain Maple?
- The flowers of Acer glabrum attract bees and beetles, which serve as important pollinators for this native maple species.
- Is Rocky Mountain Maple toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Rocky Mountain Maple as toxic to livestock.
- Is Rocky Mountain Maple HOA-friendly?
- Rocky Mountain Maple is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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.
Does Rocky Mountain Maple fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.