The Bigleaf Maple produces the largest leaves of any maple species, sometimes exceeding one foot in width. It is the dominant hardwood of coastal forests from British Columbia to California, often festooned with mosses and ferns that grow directly on its branches. Its winged seeds are eaten by band-tailed pigeons and small mammals.
Best time to see a Bigleaf Maple
The best time to see a Bigleaf Maple is March–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 27,618 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Bigleaf Maple? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Bigleaf Maple sightings near you
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