Tree
Bigtooth Maple
Acer grandidentatum
A native maple with sugar-maple fall color that handles dry, alkaline Western soil.
- Native
Quick facts
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–8
- Water
- Low once established
- Sun
- Full sun to Part sun
- Size
- 20–40 ft tall × 20–30 ft wide
- Bloom & interest
- Brilliant yellow, orange and red fall color
- Plant type
- Tree
- Native range
- Native to the Rocky Mountains and canyons of UT, ID, WY, CO, NM, AZ and west Texas
Why we recommend it
The Western answer to sugar maple: spectacular fall color on a small to medium native tree adapted to alkaline soil and much less water than eastern maples.
Best regions: Great BasinFront RangeHigh DesertSouthwest
How to grow it
Watering to establish
Deep-water every week or two the first two to three summers; established trees want a deep monthly soak in summer.
Pruning
Structural pruning in late winter while young.
Soil
Well-drained, alkaline-tolerant soil; appreciates afternoon shade in the hottest areas.
Pairs well with
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Where to buy
Shop Bigtooth Maple from trusted growers. For the best selection of xeric plants, try a mail-order specialist or ask a local independent nursery.
- High Country Gardens (opens in a new tab)Xeric specialist
- Nature Hills Nursery (opens in a new tab)Wide selection
- American Meadows (opens in a new tab)Perennials & seeds
- Etsy (opens in a new tab)Small growers
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