Norway Maple
Acer platnoides · Deciduous, Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species (likely wild-type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA 3-7
About This Tree
A large, densely canopied tree with a broadly rounded to symmetrical crown. Known for its vigorous growth and ability to withstand urban conditions.
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite, 4-7 inches wide with 5-7 sharply pointed lobes. Dark green in summer, turning bright yellow in autumn. Characterized by white milky sap at the base of the petiole when broken.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown and smooth when young, developing shallow, closely spaced, interlacing furrows and ridges in a regular diamond pattern at maturity.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe and Western Asia; widely naturalized in North America
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring, flowers April-May, samaras mature in summer/fall, dormant in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained soils but is highly adaptable to drought and clay once established.
Mature Size
40-60 feet tall with a 30-50 foot spread; fast growth rate; can live 60-150 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly tolerant of urban pollution, salt, and compacted soil. Notable for intense yellow fall color. Considered invasive in several North American regions due to heavy seeding.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites for birds and early season pollen for bees. However, its dense shade and allelopathic tendencies often suppress native understory growth.