Norway Maple
Acer platanoide · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None visible; likely straight species or common green cultivar
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-7; highly adaptable to urban pollution and compacted soils.
About This Tree
A large, broad-canopied tree with a dense, rounded crown. Known for its aggressive growth and ability to cast heavy shade that prevents undergrowth.
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite, palmately lobed with 5-7 lobes; long-pointed tips; 4-7 inches wide; dark green in summer turning yellow in autumn. Milky sap is visible when petiole is broken.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown and smooth when young, becoming regularly furrowed with narrow, interlacing ridges that form a diamond pattern as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and Western Asia; widely naturalized in North America
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring; flowers in April/May; fruits in summer; loses leaves in late autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; adaptable to various moisture levels but prefers well-drained soil; highly drought tolerant once established.
Mature Size
Height of 40-60 feet with a spread of 30-50 feet; moderate to fast growth rate; can live 60-150 years.
Special Characteristics
Extreme urban tolerance; invasive status in many Northeastern US states; produces abundant winged samaras (seeds) and is resistant to most pests except aphids.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites for birds; flowers provide spring nectar for bees; however, its dense shade and invasive nature can reduce local biodiversity.