Vine Maple

Vine Maple (Acer circinatum) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Pacific Northwest, ranging from Alaska and British Columbia southward to California and east into Washington. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade and prefers soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5, making it adaptable to various growing environments within its native range. Vine Maple is known for its distinctive, often twisted branches and lobed leaves, which add a unique aesthetic to gardens or natural landscapes. Its edible sap can be tapped similarly to maple syrup production, though it is not commonly used for consumption. Vine Maple is also valued for its utility in weaving, as a fire starter, in paint, as a preservative, and for lumber. While hardy in zones 6-9, young plants should be protected from extreme cold. Vine Maple's slow growth rate and moderate height of up to 12 meters make it a versatile addition to both cultivated and natural settings.