Ever since the Hedge Maple (also known as Field Maple) was named “Tree of the Year” back in 2015, it’s really stepped into the spotlight. And honestly? It deserves it! When it comes to growth, this hardy tree can totally hold its own against its more famous cousins. If you’re thinking about adding one to your yard, here’s the lowdown on how it grows and what to expect as it matures.
How Big Does a Hedge Maple Get?
When you plant a Hedge Maple in the right spot, it typically reaches a height of 15 to 50 feet. This makes it a perfect medium-sized tree for most landscapes. The canopy can spread out anywhere from 15 to 30 feet wide. Sometimes, you’ll see them grow with multiple trunks; in those cases, the individual trunks stay a bit slimmer, giving it a lovely, bushy look.
In terms of speed, you’re looking at about 18 inches of vertical growth per year, with the width increasing by about a foot. When it’s young, the tree usually sports an oval-shaped crown, but as it hits its “golden years,” that crown rounds out beautifully. You’ll also notice the bark changing over time—it develops deep ridges and a corky texture that doesn’t just look cool, but actually protects the tree from pests and damage.
Factors That Influence Growth
To make sure your Hedge Maple thrives, you’ve got to plant it in a spot that checks all its boxes. These trees love full sun to partial shade. Just make sure to give it plenty of elbow room away from your house or other large trees so it doesn’t have to compete for resources.
Here’s what the Hedge Maple looks for in a “forever home”:
- Well-draining soil (it hates “wet feet” or standing water)
- Nutrient-rich earth
- Alkaline or lime-rich soil
During those first few years, consistent care is key. This is when the tree is busy establishing the root system that will support it for decades. Once the roots are settled, you’ll really start to see that top-growth take off. And here’s a pro tip: if you plant them close together, they make a fantastic, dense privacy screen. You can easily prune a Hedge Maple hedge to whatever height you need, which encourages it to grow thick and bushy rather than tall.
