Bigleaf maple has small yellow-green flowers in clusters that will hang like pendants as they emerge. These flowers are a great nectar and pollen source for insects. As I took these photos, the blossoms were buzzing with activity. I’m sure this sugary food source is fueling the whirring, murmuring “hum” of hummingbirds as well.
Beekeepers in the area are always happy to see good weather accompany the bigleaf maple bloom, because of the nectar-flow these flowers provide in early spring. Occasionally I will see honey made from this nectar for sale. I think it has a peach flavor which I find quite tasty.
Bigleaf Maple Flowers (Acer Macrophyllum)
