Acer macrophyllum

Big Leaf Maple
Acer macrophyllum
Aceraceae
Collected: 13/4/12 Cougar Mountain Redtown Meadow
Sample 18

Acer macrophyllum is a tall Maple tree which provides a distinct canopy cover.  It starts the spring by allowing a vast amount of light, and by late spring it blocks out a majority of the brightest rays with its large leaves that it receives its namesake from.  The leaves can be well over a foot wide and turn from green to brown in the fall.  In Northwest forests it is not uncommon to see the licorice fern growing on the trunks and branches of the Big Leaf Maple.  Quick growing plants typically occupy the space beneath the canopy, for they take quick advantage of the early spring.