Oregon Maple

Oregon Maple (Acer macrophyllum), a member of the Sapindaceae family, is a large deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest, ranging from Alaska and British Columbia southward through California and into Washington. This tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and thrives in moist conditions with light to partial shade. Known for its edible parts including flowers, inner bark, leaves, sap, seeds, and shoots, Oregon Maple has been utilized by indigenous peoples for both food and medicine. Its distinctive feature is the large, palmate leaves that can span up to 25 centimeters across, making it a notable ornamental tree in gardens and forests alike. This tree is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay), and prefers a pH between 4.8 and 7.2. It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow rapidly, making it a fast-growing addition to any landscape. Oregon Maple can be propagated through seeds or cuttings and is valued for its utility in weaving, as a companion plant, for fiber, fire starting, hair care, preservation, scouring, and lumber. While the tree is edible and has traditional medicinal uses, caution is advised when using any part of the plant for medicinal purposes, as safety claims should be verified by a healthcare professional.