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The bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), also known as the Oregon maple, is a deciduous, long-lived tree native to the Pacific Northwest. True to its name, it dangles unusually large, 5-lobed, palmate (palm-shaped) leaves from its branches. These goliath photosynthesizers measure up to 30 cm (12 in) wide and almost as long, a singular feature that distinguishes the bigleaf maple from others in the soapberry family, Sapindaceae (though some still place it in Aceraceae). Its leaves and branches grow in an opposite formation, and spread into a domed canopy at maturity. The young bark is smooth and grayish-brown, eventually becoming red-brown and deeply fissured with age. Description from Bigleaf Maple (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
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Safe Beneath Power Lines?
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Seattle neighborhoods are full of wildlife and wild things. We’ve compiled a few exercises to help you slow down and appreciate the nature that surrounds you.
This workshop will guide you through the process and materials needed to help you decide if Mason Bees are right for you and your garden, whether you have a small deck or an open garden.
The urban environment presents dangers to wildlife that they are not always adapted to overcome. Reducing urban hazards is an essential part of enhancing habitat in cities. After all, we do not want to lure wildlife into our neighborhoods only to have them fatally collide with our windows.
Learn about container gardening with shrubs, trees, herbs, veggies, perennials, and annuals. A special focus will be on plantings that provide pollinators with food and that encourage bird habitat.
Despite the urban character and the high population density, a surprising diversity of life exists in Capitol Hill. Explore a few physical aspects of our urban ecosystems and meet some of its more-than-human residents.
Start a garden in a planting strip along the street. Explore our interactive corridor map, find what to grow, and start nurturing today.
Nature of Your Neighborhood is a collaboration between Birds Connect Seattle, the Capitol Hill EcoDistrict, and the Seattle Bird Conservation Partnership. Our goal is to foster relationships between the people and the nature of their neighborhoods.
